MD MSDE News

Dr. James Bell Jr. Chairs PGCPS Superintendent Search Committee

State Superintendent Dr. Carey M. Wright announced the appointment of Dr. James C. Bell Jr. to chair the Prince George's County Public Schools superintendent search committee. Bell, a member of the State Board of Education, will serve alongside Jennifer Avelar and Gordon L. Sampson, appointed by Gov. Wes Moore. Under state law, the County Executive must select a superintendent from three nominees between February 1 and June 1, with the Board of Education completing the appointment by June 30.

General Assembly Honors Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools

The Maryland General Assembly honored seven public and parochial schools with official floor recognitions in Annapolis. The honorees were recognized under the reinstated Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools Program for outstanding academic performance and achievement gap closing. Schools received Maryland Blue Ribbon Schools banners, flags, and award citations.

State Board Meeting March 24, Calendar Review

The Maryland State Board of Education will meet on March 24, 2026 at 9 a.m. to consider calendar modification requests from local school systems for the current school year. The Board will also receive updates on comprehensive math plans, the 2026 legislative session, and student service learning hour requirements. Five schools will be recognized for exceptional literacy instruction participation during National Reading Month.

PGCPS Superintendent Search Committee Announces Next Steps in Selection Process

The Prince George's County Public Schools Superintendent Search Committee announced next steps in identifying and appointing the school system's permanent leader. The process involves screening applicants, conducting background checks, and interviewing candidates in early May before recommending three finalists to County Executive Braveboy by May 8, 2026. State law requires the County Executive to select a superintendent by June 1 and the school board to complete the appointment by June 30.

Dr. Deborah Dennie Named National Principal Award Finalist

The Maryland State Department of Education announced Dr. Deborah Dennie, principal of Leonardtown Middle School in St. Mary's County Public Schools, as one of three national finalists for the NASSP National Principal of the Year Award. Dr. Dennie has led Leonardtown Middle School for 10 years. The award winner will be announced on April 17, 2026.