State Board grants permission to publish four regulations; initial teacher certification bill heads to governor

Zachary Hands, joining virtually, relayed highlights from the State Board meeting earlier in the week: the State Board recognized 23 new Purple Star schools and granted permission to publish four regulations recommended to MSDE. Hands summarized the regulations and the State Board vote: a disciplinary rule (COMAR 13A.12.06) shifting language from "charge" to "grounds" for licensure action, and three regulations resulting from the Blueprint work group addressing English learners (changing references from "English learner" to "multilingual learner," making the Seal of Biliteracy eligibility language more inclusive, and requiring development of LEA language access plans for translation and interpretation services). "The board did vote unanimously on all 4 to grant permission to publish," Hands said.

In the legislative update, MSDE legislative liaison Maddie reported that of several bills discussed previously, House Bill 888, the initial teacher certification bill allowing nationally accredited programs to create portfolio‑based assessments that qualify graduates for Maryland initial certification, passed and will be sent to the governor for his signature. Two other bills the board monitored did not pass this year; MSDE will continue advocacy next session for related proposals.

Board members asked timing questions about likely signature dates and noted the board's historical support for elements of HB888 even where the board did not take a formal position this session.

No formal board votes on these items were taken during this PISTAB meeting; the items were presented as updates.