In a recent meeting of the Maryland State Board of Education, held on September 26, 2023, board members engaged in a critical discussion about the future of student readiness for both college and careers. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as they examined data revealing that 27% of students are not meeting the College and Career Readiness (CCR) requirements. This statistic raised concerns about the potential for these students to be overlooked in future educational strategies.

One board member emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of this 27%, cautioning against a return to outdated tracking methods that could further marginalize these students. The discussion highlighted a need for a balanced approach that recognizes not only college pathways but also career and technical education (CTE) opportunities. The member pointed out that many students are finding success in the workforce through CTE programs, which can lead to lucrative careers without a traditional college degree.

Dr. Burleson, who contributed to the conversation, echoed these sentiments, expressing concern over the implementation of a tenth-grade check-in system. He warned that if not carefully designed, such measures could inadvertently widen existing gaps in student achievement rather than close them. He noted that many students who did not meet the CCR standards were still excelling in college courses, suggesting that the current metrics may not fully capture student potential.

The meeting also touched on broader trends in education, including a decline in college enrollments nationwide and a shift towards apprenticeship programs and dual enrollment options. Board members recognized the need to adapt to these changes, ensuring that educational measures reflect the evolving landscape of post-secondary opportunities.

As the meeting concluded, the board members expressed a commitment to continue exploring these issues, emphasizing the importance of ensuring equitable access to both college and career pathways for all students. The discussions set the stage for future initiatives aimed at enhancing student readiness in a rapidly changing educational environment.