Nearly 890,000 public school students attend one of Maryland’s more than 1,400 public schools each year under the supervision of one of more than 3,500 school leaders spread across the state’s 24 jurisdictions. But with two statewide education-related boards now operating, it begs the question: Who is really in charge? That question is one the Senate Committee on the Education, Energy and the Environment sought clarity on during a briefing on kindergarten through 12th grade school governance Wednesday... “Our (local school systems) have received some conflicting and confusing messages from (Maryland State Department of Education) and the (Accountability and Implementation Board) when it comes to Blueprint implementation,” said Sen. Mary Beth Carozza, R-Wicomico, referring to the state’s multi-billion dollar education law starting implementation this year. The Accountability and Implementation Board has responsibilities tied to local jurisdictions’ funding.   Excerpted from   Who's really in charge of Maryland's education policy? Lawmakers meet to tackle question Dwight A. Weingarten The Herald-Mail For the full article, follow this link:  A key question for Maryland: Who's in charge of education policy? (heraldmailmedia.com)   For another perspective, see this article in Maryland Matters:  Senate committee holds briefing on Maryland’s public education system, updates on Blueprint plan - Maryland Matters

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced that beginning today, state resident first responders and law enforcement officers will receive a $40 discount for an Annual State Park and Trail Passport. The passport, which allows unlimited day-use entry for all of Maryland’s state parks and park facilities for one year, is otherwise available for  $75 for in-state residents. Maryland Department of Natural Resources Secretary Josh Kurtz. “I want to thank the General Assembly for passing this legislation, Senator Mary Beth Carozza for leading the charge, our Maryland park rangers and volunteers who work hard to protect and provide access to our natural spaces, and all who vigilantly serve their communities as first responders.” To access the DNR site for full details, click below: The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Honors First Responders with Discounted Access to State Parks

When approved back in January a surplus was projected but now six months later a budget deficit has been discovered. 47ABC News spoke with state Senator Mary Beth Carroza who called the Deficit extremely concerning. She explained that the major cause of the financial disparity is the hefty cost that comes with the new educational blueprint along with federal funding that is no longer being provided to the state.... For the full Story on WMDT, click below: Maryland Budget Deficit - 47abc (wmdt.com)