The Maryland Professional Standards & Teacher Education Board convened on December 7, 2023, to discuss key priorities and upcoming initiatives for the education sector as they prepare for 2024. The meeting focused on refining disciplinary action processes for educators and establishing a work group for administrator licensing.

A significant topic of discussion was the need to clarify the definitions surrounding substantiation in cases of educator misconduct. Board members emphasized the importance of balancing the need for credible allegations with the necessity of taking action against serious misconduct. The board plans to develop clearer definitions to guide future disciplinary actions, ensuring that the process is neither overly burdensome nor dismissive of valid concerns.

Looking ahead, the board is set to draft language aligning disciplinary actions with statutory requirements. This work is expected to be presented at the next meeting in January, allowing the board to move forward once the current moratorium on publishing new regulations is lifted.

The board also discussed logistics for their upcoming meetings, expressing a desire to return to in-person sessions starting in January, contingent on weather conditions and school closures in Baltimore County. The agenda for the next meeting will include standard items such as public comments and updates from the state board, as well as discussions on regulatory items related to disciplinary actions.

In conclusion, the board is poised to tackle significant issues in educator standards and misconduct as they transition into the new year, with a focus on clarity and effective governance in the education system. The next meeting is scheduled for January 4, 2024, with a snow date set for January 11, should inclement weather arise.