The Maryland Board of Education held a virtual public hearing on November 9, 2023, focusing on the launch of a statewide literacy expert instructional support team. This initiative aims to enhance literacy education across the state by providing targeted support to school districts.

During the meeting, board members discussed the implementation of this program, which draws on successful strategies used in other states, such as Mississippi. The approach involves hiring ten specialists who will work directly with teachers and schools to bolster their literacy plans. This non-evaluative support is designed to gather data on the effectiveness of the initiative and to identify further needs within the districts.

Board member Miss McCusker raised a question about the longevity of these positions, inquiring whether they would be temporary or if there were plans for ongoing support after the initial implementation phase. The response indicated a hope that the data collected would justify the continuation of these roles, allowing for sustained assistance in literacy education.

Following the discussions, the board unanimously approved the joint proposal from the Maryland State Department of Education and the Accountability and Implementation Board to establish the support team. This decision reflects a commitment to improving literacy outcomes for students across Maryland.

The meeting concluded with plans to reconvene shortly for further discussions, emphasizing the board's proactive approach to educational challenges. This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in addressing literacy needs and enhancing educational support for Maryland's students.