The Maryland State Board of Education meeting on August 22, 2023, highlighted significant improvements in math assessment results across all grades compared to the previous year. While students have not yet returned to pre-pandemic performance levels, the upward trend is encouraging for educators and families alike.

Statewide, proficiency rates in math for grades 3 through 8 increased, with nearly all racial and ethnic groups showing improvement. However, no group has fully regained the performance levels seen before the pandemic. Notably, students with disabilities, those eligible for free and reduced meals, and English learners also demonstrated gains, although achievement gaps persist when compared to the overall student population.

The meeting revealed that the percentage of students achieving proficiency in math assessments rose to 25% for the 2022-2023 school year, with local education agencies (LEAs) reporting proficiency rates ranging from 9% to 47%. Every LEA showed improvement from the previous year, indicating a collective effort to enhance math education across the state.

In Algebra 1 assessments, all student groups again experienced increases in proficiency, yet similar to the earlier grades, no group has returned to pre-pandemic performance levels. The statewide proficiency rate for Algebra 1 stood at 17%, with LEAs showing a range from 6% to 38%.

The data also indicated a decrease in the number of students performing at the lowest levels in both math and Algebra 1, suggesting that while full proficiency remains a goal, progress is being made in elevating student performance overall.

As Maryland continues to navigate the educational landscape post-pandemic, these results underscore the importance of targeted support for all students, particularly those facing additional challenges. The Board's discussions reflect a commitment to addressing these gaps and fostering an environment where every student can thrive.