During a recent meeting of the Education Transformation & Accountability Committee held on May 16, 2024, key discussions centered around setting ambitious literacy and math proficiency targets for Maryland students. The committee, led by Dr. Goldson, emphasized the importance of focusing on third-grade literacy and fifth-grade math, alongside broader proficiency measures for grades three to eight.

Dr. Goldson proposed that the committee should not only maintain but also enhance its focus on these critical areas, aligning with the state's educational blueprint aimed at improving early warning systems and resource allocation. The committee members expressed a consensus on the need for clear targets, with one member advocating for a goal of achieving a five percentage point increase in literacy proficiency annually, drawing on successful strategies from other states like Mississippi.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to refine these targets based on feedback from the outcome measures work group before the next joint board meeting in June. The committee plans to review the proposed metrics and adjustments at that time, ensuring that the educational strategies remain aligned with the overarching goal of improving student achievement across Maryland.

The next meeting is scheduled for June 13, 2024, where further discussions will take place regarding the metrics and strategies to enhance educational outcomes for students in the state. Residents can find more information about the committee and future meetings on the State Board of Education's website.