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State Board adopts regulation to fund National Board certification incentives amid members’ concerns about literacy alignment
Summary
The State Board approved COMAR changes to fund teacher National Board certification incentives. Several board members pressed the National Board’s alignment with the state’s science‑of‑reading literacy standards and asked MSDE to press the National Board for clearer alignment.
The Maryland State Board of Education on Thursday adopted regulatory changes to fund a state incentive program for teachers who earn National Board Certification.
During discussion several board members, including Dr. Miller‑McCarthy, raised concerns that the National Board’s literacy certification standards have not fully aligned with the state’s adopted “science of reading” expectations. Board members said they had previously asked the National Board to revise its literacy standards and that the revised materials they received so far were “superficial” and lacked the specificity Maryland requested.
The board approved the COMAR amendment allowing the state incentive program to proceed; the recorded vote in the meeting counted nine in favor and three opposed. The board discussion included a request from members that MSDE follow up with the National Board and seek a clear timeline and response on whether and how the National Board will further revise the certification standards for literacy instruction.
Why it matters: Maryland’s teacher career ladder and some Blueprint incentives are tied to National Board Certification. The new regulation authorizes state funding for the incentive, potentially increasing the number of board‑certified teachers. At the same time, some members want the certification’s literacy expectations to reflect the state’s science‑of‑reading policy.
What’s next: The board requested MSDE pursue additional engagement with the National Board and report back on any timeline and specific changes. MSDE staff said they had asked the National Board for revisions and received materials that MSDE described as limited; the board asked for a response and possible next steps within 30 days.
Provenance: Discussion, motion and vote on COMAR 13A.07.08 (transcript blocks beginning at 18907.799 and concluding at 19628.725).
