(The Center Square) – The Maryland State Board of Education is proposing a new pre-K-12 Mathematics Policy to ensure access to quality math education after a significant decline in math proficiency among Maryland students.
The new policy aims to standardize instruction, improve access to advanced math courses and support educators with better training and resources. It aligns with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, a statewide education reform plan.
Recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress scores showed that only 31% of fourth and 25% of eighth graders in the state performed at or above the proficiency levels, placing the state at 43rd nationally.
In 2011, Maryland ranked fifth in fourth-grade math proficiency at 48%, but by 2022, the number dropped to 31%. Eighth-grade math proficiency fell from 40%, where it was 17th nationally in 2011, to 25% in 2022.
Board member Joshua Michael, Ph.D., highlighted these concerns during the meeting Tuesday, noting that while some progress has been observed, particularly in fourth-grade literacy, no age group has fully returned to pre-pandemic proficiency levels in reading or math.
Crawford emphasized the need to focus on performance outcomes, recalling past oversights. “We got in trouble…when we didn’t pay attention to the data..and the performance of our students went into the tank.”
Crawford suggested transparency performance indicators on local websites, stating, “It should be front and center for people to see.. when we fail these children..what’s the cost of that?”
The proposed policy would transition from the traditional algebra-geometry-algebra 2 sequence to an integrated algebra pathway. It would also provide educators with professional development and new teaching resources. The policy would also establish clear accountability systems to track student progress and share data with parents and communities.
Despite a record $9.2 billion for K-12 public schools, an increase of $461 million or 5.3% compared to 2024, some districts still struggle with budget restraints. In March 2024, 15 of the state’s 24 school districts reported concerns over funding and resource distribution needed to follow the blueprint mandates.
Howard County officials faced backlash from parents and the community after targeting elementary gifted and talented programs and teachers to address the shortfalls.
If adopted, the new policy would roll out over five years:
2025-26: New math standards finalized and released.2026-27: Teacher training begins2027-28: Schools start implementing integrated algebra coursework.2028-29: Full implementation and assessment of effectiveness.
The State Board is actively seeking feedback from the public to refine the policy and address any other obstacles.
