Maryland Education Policy Committee presents revised social studies standards for public feedback

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is set to enhance social studies education across the state with proposed revisions to its frameworks, aimed at fostering inclusivity and civic engagement among students. During the Education Policy Committee meeting on January 16, 2025, Peter Ramsey, Director of Social Studies at MSDE, presented the work of the Social Studies Standards and Frameworks Validation Committee, which has been focused on updating the curriculum to better reflect the diverse needs of Maryland's student population.

The revisions, which received unanimous approval from the committee in November, are designed to align with the College, Career, and Civic Life (C3) framework, ensuring that the curriculum promotes inquiry-based and student-centered learning. Key guiding principles include equity, representation, and the active challenge of racism and hate, all aimed at improving student outcomes and fostering critical thinking.

Among the notable changes proposed are adjustments to early education standards that emphasize civic responsibilities alongside community benefits, encouraging young learners to understand their roles within their communities. For middle school students, the curriculum will now include a broader historical context for analyzing authoritarian regimes, integrating critical examples such as the Holocaust to enhance understanding of human rights issues. High school frameworks will also see a refined focus on the Red Scare, addressing the historical impacts of antisemitism and xenophobia.

The next step in this process involves a 30-day public comment period in February, allowing educators, parents, and community members to provide feedback on the proposed revisions. This collaborative approach underscores MSDE's commitment to creating educational resources that resonate with Maryland's diverse educational community.

As these revisions move forward, they promise to equip students with the necessary skills to engage thoughtfully with social studies content, preparing them for active participation in a complex and interconnected world.