MarylandTransformsStrategicPlanningEngagementReport - Flipbook - Page 51
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Stakeholders have stressed key areas for improvement, the unmet
challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and urgency
about the need to transform educational experiences for all students
at scale, especially those who have been historically underserved.”
Many of the themes that were prominent in the strategic planning survey and roundtables also emerged during listening sessions.
Participants stressed the importance of strengthening health and wellness supports for students. They also emphasized creating
seamless and equitable pathways to college and careers and the expectation that institutions of higher education, employers, and
the educational system must collaborate effectively to make those pathways a reality for every Maryland student. Listening sessions
also called attention to additional priorities, such as the need to address teacher shortages and expanding high-quality Pre-K and
early childhood programs.
As we entered Phase 2 of our engagement efforts, we heard stakeholders advocate for innovative ways to recruit and retain highquality teachers and staff during the regional data walks. The feedback mirrored previous conversations about pathways to college
and careers and exposing students to more opportunities earlier in their educational journey. Data walks fostered a collaborative
environment where local education leaders could connect and learn from one another reflecting a clear demand for more
opportunities like this in the future.
In Phase 3, we gave our stakeholders a platform to become mutual authors of the plan through strategic planning charettes. We
listened as participants shared their personal perspectives on early childhood, literacy, support in the middle grades, educator
preparation, and ensuring students are ready for college and career. Through the charettes, stakeholders identified and ranked
strategies grounded in research.
The Maryland State Board of Education and the Maryland State Department of Education look forward to the continued
implementation of the Strategic Plan and the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. By addressing the challenges, seizing the
opportunities, and upholding the values that have been expressed throughout this process, we will ensure a brighter and more
equitable future for the children of Maryland. Thank you for transforming Maryland with us!
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