A new mandate from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is set to transform the mentoring process for new teachers, ensuring they receive robust support as they enter the classroom. During the Professional Standards & Teacher Education Board meeting on December 5, 2024, officials outlined a statutory requirement that each new teacher must receive at least 180 minutes of mentoring each month.

The initiative emphasizes a rigorous selection process for mentors, which includes demonstrating instructional expertise and receiving favorable evaluations from school leaders. Mentors will also be matched with mentees based on licensure areas and diversity considerations, enhancing the support system for new educators.

Local school systems are tasked with developing comprehensive evaluation plans for their induction programs. These plans must include feedback from both mentors and mentees, evidence of professional development progress, and retention data for new teachers. The goal is to ensure that mentoring is not only effective but also aligned with national teaching standards.

This new framework aims to create a supportive environment for new teachers, ultimately enhancing educational outcomes for students across Maryland. As local systems begin to implement these changes, the focus will be on continuous improvement and the long-term success of new educators in the state.