National Apprenticeship Week: Bridging Workforce Gaps

Apprenticeships are shaping the future of work—fueling innovation, expanding career opportunities, and addressing critical workforce needs.  The US Department of Labor announced the 10th annual National Apprenticeship Week (November 17-23), celebrating a decade of expanding and innovating career pathways through Registered Apprenticeship. This year's theme, “Celebrating 10 Years of Engagement, Expansion, and Innovation,” is highlighted by over 1,300 events across all US states and territories and over 800 proclamations. The week emphasizes the role of…

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MD Superintendent of Schools Celebrates One Year in the Role

Dr. Carey Wright has completed one full year in the role of Maryland Superintendent of Schools as stakeholders share perspectives on progress.  According to a recent column published by Maryland Matters, Dr. Carey Wright is broadly receiving high marks from stakeholders when questioned about her first full year on the job. As the State Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Wright is tasked with leading the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). Her charge as the leader of the…

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Empowering Experience and Elevating New Talent at #MACoCon

Bridging the expertise of seasoned employees with the perspectives of emerging talent is key to building a resilient and inclusive workforce. Workforce dynamics are evolving rapidly as employers navigate the challenges of an aging workforce alongside the need to attract and develop new talent. Older employees bring a wealth of institutional knowledge, but retaining them requires thoughtful approaches to workplace flexibility and inclusion. At the same time, building robust pipelines for young adults and non-traditional…

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School Construction Commission Talks Growing Need and Funding Shortfalls

The Interagency Commission (IAC) on School Construction met to discuss new and existing school construction projects across several jurisdictions as fiscal pressure mounts in school districts throughout the state. During the most recent meeting of the IAC on School Construction leaders met to discuss increases in school construction needs and the resource limitations of the commission. Executive Director Alex Donahue briefed the membership on the financial gaps local education agencies are facing even beyond construction…

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Maryland’s Job Growth Challenge: Navigating Economic Headwinds

Maryland’s job growth rate paints a troubling picture. According to the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, the Old Line State ranks 49th in the nation with only 0.6 percent growth over the past year. The state lags behind neighbors like Virginia and Pennsylvania, who are outpacing Maryland in both jobs added and overall percentage change. According to the latest data from the Maryland Chamber of Commerce, Maryland faces several challenges related to business competitiveness: 49th in…

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Howard Community College Secures $50k Grant for Workforce Development

A new grant will empower Howard Community College to equip students with cutting-edge skills for high-demand careers, fueling economic mobility. Howard Community College is making an exciting announcement that will pave the way for Maryland's economic mobility and workforce readiness. The Truist Foundation has awarded a $50,000 grant to support the forthcoming Cathy & Danny Bell Workforce Development and Trades Center, which is estimated to open in the fall of 2026 and will enhance career…

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What We’ve Learned About Learning: The Blueprint In Year Three at #MACoCon

Education experts from around the state come together to speak with counties about the status of Blueprint implementation. The Blueprint for Maryland's Future (Blueprint) aims to revolutionize the way students are educated in Maryland. Through a multi-year, five-pillar approach local school systems in conjunction with Blueprint Implementation Coordinators are tasked with carrying out and tracking the sweeping changes that come with the legislative requirements for this reform policy. As the rollout out of this visionary…

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Read more about the article Maryland Casinos Generate $160.5M in Gaming Revenue During October
Source: Maryland Lottery and Gaming
Maryland Casinos Generate $160.5M in Gaming Revenue During October

Maryland’s six casinos combined to generate $160,524,322 in revenue from slot machines and table games in October 2024, a slight increase of $712,557, or 0.4 percent, compared to October 2023. In October 2024, casino gaming contributions to the state totaled $68,562,306, reflecting a 1.9 percent increase of $1,307,235 compared to the same month last year. Of this, nearly $49.5 million went to the Education Trust Fund, an increase of 2.0 percent or $964,819 from October…

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MD’s Wage Range Transparency Act: FAQs for Employers

The Maryland Department of Labor released frequently asked questions (FAQs) for employers on the Wage Range Transparency Act. Maryland’s Wage Range Transparency Act took effect on October 1, 2024. The Act adds significant new requirements to the state’s Equal Pay for Equal Work laws. Public sector employers must understand these new rules to stay compliant. A recent Ogletree Deakins article discusses the Wage Range Transparency Act. The Act mandates that employers disclose certain information in…

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Community Colleges Partially Avoided Deep Cuts in ’24… What’s Next?

A recent Department of Legislative Services (DLS) report on the Cade Funding Formula outlines various considerations for the Maryland General Assembly regarding how the State allocates funding to its community colleges. These considerations are drafted to potentially modernize the current funding system, which ties community college funding to a percentage of the support given to four-year public institutions. However, the proposed changes could negatively impact smaller colleges and those serving more vulnerable student populations. Senator John R.…

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