Four Schools in Baltimore and Howard Counties Public Schools will pilot a Math Instruction Program as Part of Federal State Personnel Development Grant totaling $5.5 million.
The Baltimore and Howard Counties public school systems were chosen by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) to receive a federal grant to implement a pilot program improve learning outcomes for students with disabilities. The $5.5 million grant, titled State Personnel Development Grant (SPDG), is awarded by the U.S. Department of Education and local school systems had to previously apply for the grant pilot to be considered for the opportunity; the application was closed earlier this year.
Howard County Public Schools and Baltimore County Public Schools were chosen for the pilot and will partner with MSDE’s Division of Early Intervention and Special Education Services, Towson University, the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education, and local and national experts “to improve math achievement and social-emotional competency of elementary students with disabilities.”
“We are committed to narrowing achievement gaps and dismantling inequities in special education through careful and intentional design of instruction and support practices. With this pilot, we will accelerate academic achievement, specifically in mathematics where many children with and without disabilities struggle to achieve grade level standards,” said State Superintendent of Schools Mohammed Choudhury. “This innovative partnership provides the opportunity to demonstrate high quality and effective special education practices that lead to positive academic and social-emotional outcomes.”
Each county will pilot the program in two elementary schools, as detailed below.
Baltimore County pilots:
- Mars Estates Elementary School
- Scotts Branch Elementary School
Howard County pilots:
- Hanover Hills Elementary School
- Jeffers Hill Elementary School
MSDE’s website outlines details of the grant program, including state and local responsibilities.
