Board approves COMAR amendments on teacher licensure, reciprocal discipline and therapist compacts
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Summary
The board voted to publish and adopt several COMAR amendments: removing a fixed July 15 resignation date from licensure discipline rules, granting the state superintendent discretion in reciprocal discipline cases, and adopting compact/reciprocity language for therapists to practice in Maryland schools.
Sofia, a staff presenter, led a package of rule changes to the educator licensure chapter of the COMAR regulations and explained why the amendments are necessary: to align licensure disciplinary regulations with contractual language and to permit discretion on reciprocal discipline.
On COMAR 13A.12.06.02 (grounds for disciplinary action), Sofia said the existing licensure regulation incorrectly cited a fixed July 15 resignation deadline. The proposed amendment removes that fixed date and cross‑references contractual deadlines that vary by hire date and tenure status. "We are taking out that restrictive date," Sofia said, adding that the change aligns licensure language with contract regulations and preserves local education agency discretion to pursue sanctions.
Board members questioned whether removing the date would create broader uncertainty or reduce educator mobility. Dr. Woodworth asked how often districts pursue sanctions tied to breach of contract; Sofia said the department does not have district‑level data immediately available but emphasized the change is an alignment rather than a new restriction.
The board voted to give permission to publish COMAR 13A.12.06.02.
On COMAR 13A.12.06.03 (reciprocal discipline), Sofia proposed changing a current mandatory requirement into discretionary authority for the state superintendent: after reviewing another state’s sanction and the circumstances, the superintendent could decline further disciplinary action, adopt the other state’s sanction, or adapt it. Sofia clarified that applicants would still need to report prior sanctions on licensure applications, but that the new language avoids automatic duplicate discipline. The board moved and approved permission to publish this amendment.
Finally, the board considered COMAR 13A.12.04.10 (other therapists). That amendment would allow therapists such as speech‑language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists, and audiologists to practice in Maryland schools under a valid compact privilege or a recognized reciprocal license from another state. Sofia noted the amendment aligns with federal regulations and interstate compacts and that no public comments were received. The board voted to adopt the amendment following publication.
Why it matters: The package clarifies the department’s disciplinary authority, preserves district discretion while aligning administrative rules to contract language, and removes regulatory barriers for therapists using interstate compacts or recognized reciprocity.
What’s next: Staff will publish the COMAR changes in the Maryland Register and proceed with implementation steps, including public notice for the rules where required.
