The Maryland State Board of Education recently reviewed a proposed literacy policy that has sparked debate among its members. The policy, which could result in holding back third-grade students with reading difficulties, faced criticism from some board members during a lengthy discussion.
Susan Getty, a veteran educator with 40 years of experience, expressed strong opposition to the policy, calling it “harmful to children” and not aligned with best practices in literacy. Joan Mele-McCarthy, another board member, called for more research, citing the National Association of School Psychologists’ stance against retention policies based solely on test scores.
Despite these concerns, state education officials, led by State Superintendent Carey Wright, argue that the draft policy is research-based. Tenette Smith, executive director of literacy programs, cited a study indicating that states with comprehensive literacy plans saw improvements in assessments and student outcomes.
The proposed policy draws inspiration from a similar initiative in Mississippi, where Wright previously served as state superintendent. A Boston University study found that Mississippi’s policy contributed to significant improvements in fourth-grade reading scores between 2013 and 2019. However, the study also noted that student achievement in other areas did not improve.
Key features of Maryland’s proposed policy include:
- Reading intervention programs for K-3 students identified with reading deficiencies
- Regular screening for reading issues, including dyslexia
- Before- and after-school tutoring by specialists trained in the science of reading
- Professional development for staff
- Parental notification of reading challenges
- Intensive support for retained third-grade students
While some education professionals support the state’s efforts to improve literacy, others express concerns about the additional burdens on teachers and school leaders. Christopher Wooleyhand, executive director of the Maryland Association of Elementary School Principals, cautioned against mandatory policies that could strain local education agencies and communities.
The board plans to hold a special comment period on the literacy policy during next month’s meeting, with a goal to vote on the policy by September. The implementation timeline remains undetermined.
In other news, the board elected new leadership, with Joshua Michael replacing Clarence Crawford as president and Monica Goldson chosen as vice president. The board also recognized outgoing Maryland State Education Association President Cheryl Bost, who is set to retire at the end of the month.