During the Maryland State Board of Education meeting on May 21, 2024, a significant discussion emerged around the need for compensating teachers and paraprofessionals for their time spent on professional development. Board members expressed concern that the current 35-hour requirement for training could place undue stress on educators, particularly those juggling multiple jobs or family responsibilities.

One board member highlighted the importance of recognizing the time commitment involved in professional development, stating, "35 hours is a lot of time," and emphasized the need for a stipend or some form of compensation. This sentiment was echoed by others who pointed out that many paraprofessionals are not pursuing recertification but are instead focused on making ends meet. The discussion underscored the necessity of integrating professional development into school hours to alleviate the burden on educators.

Dr. Wright and other board members agreed that collaboration with Local Education Agencies (LEAs) is crucial to ensure that professional development is both beneficial and feasible for teachers and paraprofessionals. They stressed the importance of making these programs valuable, particularly for those who need support the most.

In a related decision, the board unanimously approved the allocation of $350,000 from the Public Education Partnership Fund to support best instructional practices in the science of reading as part of the Maryland State Department of Education's comprehensive literacy plan. This funding aims to enhance teacher training and improve educational outcomes across the state.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep board members updated on the progress of these initiatives, reinforcing the board's dedication to supporting educators and improving teaching practices in Maryland schools.