Empty Classroom - File Photo - Bigstock Photo

Maryland officials urge action on school safety transfer rule as legislature delays vote — Empty Classroom - File Photo - Bigstock Photo

BALTIMORE — The Maryland State Board of Education and State Superintendent Dr. Carey M. Wright expressed concern Thursday after lawmakers declined to vote on an emergency regulation aimed at strengthening communication regarding student safety risks when students transfer between schools.

The Joint Committee on Administrative, Executive, and Legislative Review (AELR) postponed its decision on the regulation, which was proposed by the State Board during its October 22 meeting. The regulation seeks to address a gap in how information about students involved in reportable offenses is shared between school districts.

Under current guidance issued by Dr. Wright, school leaders must confidentially share records of reportable offenses when a student transfers schools, a requirement that applies retroactively to students enrolled since the start of the 2023-2024 school year. The guidance will remain in place while the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) receives public comment and the proposal undergoes the regulatory review process.

The State Board emphasized the importance of collaboration with lawmakers and agencies, including the Department of Juvenile Services, to improve safety measures. “In order to ensure the safety for all members of the school community, we believe district leadership must have the necessary information to determine the most appropriate setting when an individual student presents a safety risk,” the officials said in a joint statement.

The General Assembly is expected to revisit the matter during its next legislative session, though no specific timeline for action has been set.

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