In a pivotal meeting held on November 21, 2024, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) convened a workshop focused on enhancing special education and post-secondary outcomes for students with disabilities. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency and hope as experts gathered to discuss the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, a comprehensive plan aimed at ensuring all students exit school prepared for college and careers.

Jay Gingrich, a seasoned advocate with over two decades of experience in disability employment policy, opened the session by emphasizing the importance of individualized and integrated job opportunities for students with disabilities. As the director of employment and transition policy for the Maryland Department of Disabilities, Gingrich highlighted Maryland's progressive stance as the second state in the nation to eliminate subminimum wage, advocating for "real jobs, real pay." This initiative aims to empower students with disabilities to enter the workforce with confidence and the necessary skills.

The meeting also featured Molly Connor, branch chief of performance support and technical assistance, who underscored the significance of early transition planning. In Maryland, this process begins at age 14, two years earlier than federal requirements, allowing families to engage more deeply in their children's educational journeys. Connor stressed that successful post-school outcomes are closely linked to parental expectations and the inclusion of students in general education settings, which fosters a more integrated experience.

A key theme throughout the discussions was the need for equity in access to career readiness opportunities. Participants explored how to balance academic and career readiness without compromising either. The conversation included the importance of inclusive apprenticeships and career technology education, ensuring that all students, regardless of their abilities, have meaningful opportunities to develop essential skills.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for local education agencies to explicitly address the needs of students with individualized education plans (IEPs) in their implementation strategies. As the state grapples with rising unemployment and an aging population, the urgency to equip all students with the belief that they can work and the skills to do so has never been more critical.

This workshop not only highlighted the strides Maryland is making in special education but also set the stage for ongoing collaboration among educators, families, and policymakers to ensure that every student, regardless of their challenges, has the opportunity to thrive in the post-school world.