On August 23, 2023, the Maryland Department of Education convened the first meeting of the Blueprint Special Education Workgroup, focusing on enhancing educational outcomes for students with disabilities. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that the transformational changes promised by the Blueprint are accessible to all students in Maryland.

The meeting highlighted the workgroup's charge to collect and analyze data on students receiving special education services. Key areas of focus include reviewing the types of services available, instructional methods employed both in Maryland and elsewhere, and assessing the learning loss experienced during the pandemic. The workgroup has been granted the flexibility to expand its scope to address critical issues such as teacher shortages, support for both general and special educators, and various service delivery models, including co-teaching strategies.

A significant aspect of the meeting was the emphasis on collaboration and research. The workgroup plans to follow a model similar to that of the successful English Language Learners workgroup, which involved monthly discussions on specific topics, research reviews, and consultations with national experts. This approach aims to create a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected challenges facing special education in Maryland.

The workgroup is set to produce an initial report by December 2023, followed by an interim report in July 2024, and a final report in December 2024. These reports will outline findings and recommendations for the governor and the general assembly, marking a critical step towards improving educational services for students with disabilities.

As the meeting transitioned to a data presentation, participants were encouraged to consider the current state of students with disabilities in Maryland, setting the stage for informed discussions and strategic planning in the months ahead. The workgroup's commitment to thorough analysis and stakeholder engagement signals a proactive approach to addressing the needs of this vulnerable student population.