The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is taking significant steps to enhance parent and community engagement in local education agencies (LEAs) following discussions during the Education Policy Committee meeting on October 10, 2024. Acknowledging the challenges faced by LEAs in connecting with parents, committee members emphasized the need for tailored support and clear communication strategies to ensure effective implementation of new policies.

Key discussions highlighted the importance of proactive engagement with parents, particularly in light of the default policy that could lead to student retention if communication fails. Committee member Miss Medina raised concerns about the current struggles LEAs face in fostering meaningful connections with families. In response, MSDE officials committed to providing customized assistance, including one-on-one meetings with LEA teams to develop effective engagement strategies.

The committee recognized that many educators feel apprehensive about direct communication with parents, often resorting to emails or messaging platforms without establishing genuine connections. To address this, MSDE plans to launch a campaign aimed at increasing awareness among parents about their involvement in educational decisions. This initiative will include the distribution of family success guides in multiple languages to make information more accessible and engaging.

Additionally, MSDE is preparing to conduct parent nights in collaboration with LEAs, ensuring that schools are not left to navigate these challenges alone. This hands-on approach aims to rebuild trust and partnership within school communities, ultimately enhancing the educational experience for students.

As MSDE moves forward with these initiatives, the focus remains on fostering a collaborative environment where parents feel empowered to participate actively in their children's education. The commitment to ongoing support and engagement is expected to yield positive outcomes for families and schools alike.