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Board amends educator disciplinary rules, replacing 'charge' with 'grounds' and defining 'petition'
Summary
The Maryland State Board of Education on Sept. 11 adopted amendments to COMAR 13A.12.06 to replace the word "charge" with "grounds" in disciplinary rules and to add a definition of "petition."
At its Sept. 11 meeting the Maryland State Board of Education approved amendments to COMAR 13A.12.06 (Disciplinary Action and Denial) that replace the term "charge" with "grounds" throughout the chapter and add a definition of "petition."
Board staff explained the change responds to feedback from local education agencies that the word "charge" could be confused with criminal charges. The new wording is intended to clarify that a disciplinary recommendation or ground for action need not involve criminal prosecution or conviction.
The board voted to adopt the amendments after staff noted there were no public comments submitted during the public‑comment period. The amendments will be forwarded to the State Board of Education for consideration at its September meeting.
Board members discussed the intent to reduce confusion among educators and LEAs when disciplinary recommendations are made and to codify the meaning of "petition" as a recommendation from an LEA, nonpublic school, or MSDE division to the state superintendent of schools.
The board recorded the motion and adopted the amendments by voice vote.
