On May 11, 2023, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) held a Virtual Ready For High School Charette, focusing on the critical transition students face as they prepare for high school. This meeting was part of a broader initiative to enhance educational outcomes and ensure that students are adequately prepared for their academic futures.

A key highlight of the meeting was the introduction of a concentration of poverty grant, which aims to implement structured wraparound services for students. This initiative is designed to address the unique challenges faced by students from low-income backgrounds, ensuring they receive the support necessary for academic success. The discussion emphasized the importance of governance and accountability, with the establishment of expert review teams composed of both local and national educators. These teams will provide feedback to schools based on a defined rubric, promoting a continuous improvement model.

The meeting also outlined the strategic planning process, which has been extended to two years to accommodate the disruptions caused by the pandemic. This extended timeline allows for more comprehensive stakeholder engagement, with over 30 roundtable discussions and listening sessions already conducted, involving nearly 400 participants. The MSDE aims to gather feedback through a strategic planning survey, targeting a goal of 50,000 responses by June.

The revamped mission and vision of the state board and department were presented, emphasizing the goal of creating a system of world-class schools. The focus is on ensuring that students acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for success in college and careers. The meeting underscored the importance of equity, accountability, and the need for a supportive educational environment.

Four key priorities were identified, including ensuring students are ready for high school, which was the central theme of the charette. The discussions highlighted the need for increased attention to middle school education, where significant academic drop-offs often occur. The meeting concluded with a focus on measurable goals and metrics to track progress, including improving student readiness indicators and graduation rates.

Overall, the charette served as a platform for collaboration and dialogue among educators, stakeholders, and community members, aiming to enhance the educational landscape in Maryland. The next steps involve implementing the discussed strategies and continuing to engage the community in the ongoing process of educational improvement.