Maryland Senate discusses NASDAQ membership for enhanced teacher vetting and cybersecurity bill

The Maryland General Assembly's Education, Energy, and Environment Committee convened on March 5, 2025, to discuss significant legislative proposals aimed at enhancing the safety and security of public schools. Two key bills were the focus of the session: Senate Bill 845, which seeks to implement a new vetting process for school personnel, and Senate Bill 907, aimed at strengthening cybersecurity measures in schools.

Senate Bill 845, introduced by Senator Shelly Hetleman, proposes the adoption of the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education Certification (NASDAQ) as a tool for local education agencies (LEAs) to screen teachers and staff more effectively. The bill was prompted by a troubling incident at Pikesville High School, where a principal was removed following the emergence of racist and homophobic remarks. Testimony from Pikesville High School senior Jonah Spiegelman highlighted the need for improved vetting processes, emphasizing that NASDAQ could have flagged the principal's previous issues, potentially preventing his hiring. The membership cost for NASDAQ is estimated at $23,000 for the entire state, making it a financially feasible option for enhancing school safety.

The committee also reviewed Senate Bill 907, presented by Senator Katie Fry Hester, which addresses the growing threat of cyberattacks on public schools. The bill mandates that LEAs report their IT expenditures and establishes minimum cybersecurity standards to protect sensitive student and staff data. Recent cyber incidents, including a ransomware attack on Baltimore County Public Schools, underscored the urgency of this legislation. The bill aims to ensure that all school systems comply with cybersecurity protocols by 2026 and includes provisions for regular assessments to evaluate preparedness against cyber threats.

Both bills received strong support from committee members and witnesses, who underscored the importance of safeguarding students and staff in Maryland's educational institutions. The committee's discussions reflected a commitment to proactive measures that enhance the safety and security of public schools, with both bills poised for favorable reports as they move forward in the legislative process.