Maryland’s chronic absenteeism rate fell again in the 2025-26 school year, marking the fourth consecutive year of decline and the lowest rate since the pandemic. According to a recent press release from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Maryland’s chronic absenteeism rate fell to 22.8 percent in the 2025-26 school year, marking the fourth consecutive year of decline and the lowest rate since the pandemic. The rate has dropped from 30.9 percent in 2021-22,…

New York City and Los Angeles public schools banned most student use of AI in classrooms for the 2026-2027 school year.  According to a recent Stateline article, the two largest school districts in the country - New York City and Los Angeles - have moved to largely ban AI use by students for the 2026- 2027 school year. The effect of AI on student learning was a major concern behind the decisions. Chicago could follow suit while…

As national discussions around AI development continue to explode, local school systems are required to have all new and updated AI policies in place this month. Additionally, the newly established Maryland AI Education Collaborative on Artificial Intelligence in K-12 Education does not appear to have met yet and is not expected to report out until December 1, 2027. Maryland school districts are required this fall to establish policies governing the use of artificial intelligence in…

A recent meeting of the Maryland State Board of Education saw the adoption of an extended timeline to implement a new statewide mathematics instruction policy.  As previously covered on Conduit Street, the State Department of Education (MSDE) proposed changes to how, and how often, math instruction is done in Maryland schools. The changes effect a couple things but primarily it would delay the implementation of a requirement that all school districts are required to provide 60 minutes…