Worcester County outlines steps to meet Maryland math policy while emphasizing local strengths

Sarah Blackburn, coordinator of mathematics instruction for Worcester County, told the board that the district is preparing for Maryland's revised math policy and has steps already in place to comply, including daily math menu blocks, targeted professional learning, family-facing one-page grade-level guides, and local assessment systems.

"We want all students to see themselves as doers and as mathematicians," Blackburn said, framing the policy's goal to expand equitable access and to revise high-school mathematics to an integrated-algebra sequence in 2027. She told the board that Worcester County exceeds the state's minimum minutes for math instruction and that the district is implementing K–8 standard revisions this year to align with forthcoming high-school shifts.

Board members asked whether the state would provide new funding for the professional development the changes will require; Blackburn and other staff said the state is providing resources and turnkey supports but that the district had not been notified of new direct funding to cover extensive local PD, leaving the district to absorb training costs within its operating budget.

Superintendent Wallace and board members emphasized that, while statewide standards are changing, Worcester County remains a top-performing jurisdiction in the state and must balance investment in teacher supports with fiscal constraints. District staff said they will increase family engagement materials and expand counselor and course-catalog work to broaden student access to post-integration course options.

The presentation concluded with board members and staff outlining next steps: continued staff development, family outreach, and an implementation timeline tied to the state's phased schedule.