Maryland Education Department Updates Health and Physical Education Standards for Students

The Maryland Department of Education convened an Education Policy Committee meeting on August 14, 2025, to discuss significant updates in health and physical education standards. The meeting highlighted a transformative approach to these subjects, moving away from traditional methods to more comprehensive, skills-based programs that respond to the needs of Maryland youth.

The discussion began with an acknowledgment of the evolution of health education, which now encompasses a broader range of topics beyond just drugs and nutrition. Modern health education aims to create safe spaces for students to develop informed health decisions throughout their lives. Similarly, physical education is being redefined to focus on meaningful engagement rather than mere compliance. The emphasis is on providing students with authentic lessons that promote physical literacy.

A key aspect of the meeting was the formation of standards and frameworks validation committees for both health and physical education. These committees included a diverse group of stakeholders, such as parents, teachers, and health professionals, who collaborated to align Maryland's educational standards with national guidelines. The committees considered public health trends and existing Maryland laws, ensuring that the new standards incorporate essential topics like CPR training, diabetes education, and violence prevention.

The meeting also addressed the regulatory framework governing health and physical education. Maryland's laws require that health education be taught in a medically accurate and age-appropriate manner, with a focus on equity and inclusion, particularly for students with disabilities. The new recommendations aim to streamline the standards, reducing the number of health education standards from six to four, while ensuring that physical education remains relevant and accessible to all students.

In conclusion, the Maryland Department of Education is taking significant steps to enhance health and physical education, emphasizing the importance of overall well-being and meaningful learning experiences. The anticipated changes reflect a commitment to providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary for lifelong health. As these new standards are implemented, local education agencies will be supported in developing high-quality curricula that align with these progressive goals.