Maryland
Maryland test scores reflect historic COVID setbacks for kids across US
![Maryland test scores reflect historic COVID setbacks for kids across US Maryland test scores reflect historic COVID setbacks for kids across US](https://assets3.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2022/10/24/6be9de24-25dd-481d-bce5-40f51d560a12/thumbnail/1200x630/d7b082ac06afe215f8bce6996c349e32/gettyimages-52077072.jpg)
WASHINGTON (AP) — The COVID-19 pandemic spared no state or area because it prompted historic studying setbacks for America’s kids, erasing many years of educational progress and widening racial disparities, based on outcomes of a nationwide take a look at that present the sharpest look but on the scale of the disaster.
Throughout the nation, math scores noticed their largest decreases ever. Studying scores dropped to 1992 ranges. Almost 4 in 10 eighth graders failed to understand primary math ideas. Not a single state noticed a notable enchancment of their common take a look at scores, with some merely treading water at finest.
These are the findings from the Nationwide Evaluation of Instructional Progress — generally known as the “nation’s report card” — which examined lots of of hundreds of fourth and eighth graders throughout the nation this yr. It was the primary time the take a look at had been given since 2019, and it is seen as the primary nationally consultant examine of the pandemic’s affect on studying.
Maryland’s college students have been no exception, with testing outcomes indicating {that a} majority of Maryland fourth- and eighth-graders have been aren’t proficient in math or studying.
The biggest decline in proficiency in Maryland and nationally was in arithmetic, with 75percentt of Maryland eighth graders and 69% of the state’s fourth graders at or under primary achievement in arithmetic.
State Superintendent of Faculties Mohammed Choudhury mentioned the state must be “revolutionary, collaborative and daring” in its approaches to speed up pupil achievement.
Maryland’s NAEP scores have typically been in decline since 2013 in every examined grade, based on Maryland Public Faculties.
There isn’t any sugar coating these outcomes,” he mentioned. “Maryland has been experiencing a downward pattern since 2013, and a return to regular will not be ok. The present struggles of our college students can’t be solely attributed to the pandemic. Our aim is to make sure that each Maryland pupil has entry to glorious academic alternatives to appreciate their full potential, particularly those that have been traditionally underserved.”
“It’s a severe wakeup name for us all,” Peggy Carr, commissioner of the Nationwide Middle for Training Statistics, a department of the Training Division, mentioned in an interview. “In NAEP, once we expertise a 1- or 2-point decline, we’re speaking about it as a major affect on a pupil’s achievement. In math, we skilled an 8-point decline — historic for this evaluation.”
Researchers normally consider a 10-point acquire or drop as equal to roughly a yr of studying.
It is no shock that kids are behind. The pandemic upended each side of life and left thousands and thousands studying from residence for months or extra. The outcomes launched Monday reveal the depth of these setbacks, and the scale of the problem going through faculties as they assist college students catch up.
Training Secretary Miguel Cardona mentioned it is a signal that faculties must redouble their efforts, utilizing billions of {dollars} that Congress gave faculties to assist college students get well.
“Let me be very clear: these outcomes usually are not acceptable,” Cardona mentioned.
The NAEP take a look at is often given each two years. It was taken between January and March by a pattern of scholars in each state, together with 26 of the nation’s largest faculty districts. Scores had been stalling even earlier than the pandemic, however the brand new outcomes present decreases on a scale not seen earlier than.
In each math and studying, college students scored decrease than these examined in 2019. However whereas studying scores dipped, math scores plummeted by the biggest margins within the historical past of the NAEP take a look at, which started in 1969.
Math scores have been worst amongst eighth graders, with 38% incomes scores deemed “under primary” — a cutoff that measures, for instance, whether or not college students can discover the third angle of a triangle in the event that they’re given the opposite two. That is worse than 2019, when 31% of eighth graders scored under that stage.
No a part of the nation was exempt. Each area noticed take a look at scores slide, and each state noticed declines in a minimum of one topic.
A number of main districts noticed take a look at scores fall by greater than 10 factors. Cleveland noticed the biggest single drop, falling 16 factors in fourth-grade studying, together with a 15-point decline in fourth-grade math. Baltimore and Tennessee’s Shelby County additionally noticed precipitous declines.
“That is extra affirmation that the pandemic hit us actually laborious,” mentioned Eric Gordon, chief government for the Cleveland Metropolitan Faculty District. To assist college students get well, the varsity system has beefed up summer season faculty and added after-school tutoring.
“I am not involved that they can not or will not get well,” Gordon mentioned. “I am involved that the nation will not keep targeted on getting youngsters caught up.”
The outcomes present a reversal of progress on math scores, which had made huge beneficial properties because the Nineties. Studying, in contrast, had modified little in current many years, so even this yr’s comparatively small decreases put the averages again to the place they have been in 1992.
Most regarding, nevertheless, are the gaps between college students.
Confirming what many had feared, racial inequities seem to have widened in the course of the pandemic. In fourth grade, Black and Hispanic college students noticed greater decreases than white college students, widening gaps which have persevered for many years.
The Maryland Board of Training reported scores of white college students remained unchanged in all grades and topics besides eighth-grade math, and the scores of Asian college students additionally remained unchanged.
Black college students in Maryland had decreases in eighth-grade studying and math, together with fourth-grade math. Hispanic college students skilled decreases in fourth-grade studying and math, together with eighth grade math, the state mentioned.
Inequities have been additionally mirrored in a rising hole between increased and lower-performing college students. In math and studying, scores fell most sharply among the many lowest-performing college students, making a widening chasm between struggling college students and the remainder of their friends.
Surveys carried out as a part of this yr’s take a look at illustrate the divide.
When faculties shifted to distant studying, higher-performing college students have been much more prone to have dependable entry to quiet areas, computer systems and assist from their academics, the survey discovered.
The outcomes clarify that faculties should handle the “long-standing and systemic shortcomings of our schooling system,” mentioned Alberto Carvalho, superintendent of Los Angeles faculties and a member of the Nationwide Evaluation Governing Board, which units the insurance policies for the take a look at.
“Whereas the pandemic was a blow to varsities and communities, we can not use it as an excuse,” he mentioned. “We’ve got to remain dedicated to excessive requirements and expectations and assist each little one succeed.”
Different current research have discovered that college students who spent longer intervals studying on-line suffered larger setbacks. However the NAEP outcomes present no clear connection. Areas that returned to the classroom shortly nonetheless noticed important declines, and cities — which have been extra prone to keep distant longer — really noticed milder decreases than suburban districts, based on the outcomes.
Los Angeles can declare one of many few shiny spots within the outcomes. The nation’s second-largest faculty district noticed eighth-grade studying scores enhance by 9 factors, the one important uptick in any district. For different districts, it was a feat simply to carry even, as achieved by Dallas and Florida’s Hillsborough County.
Testing critics warning towards placing an excessive amount of inventory in exams like NAEP, however there is no doubt that the talents it goals to measure are vital. College students who take longer to grasp studying usually tend to drop out and find yourself within the felony justice system, analysis has discovered. And eighth grade is seen as a pivotal time to develop abilities for math, science and know-how careers.
For Carr, the outcomes increase new questions on what’s going to occur to college students who seem like far behind in achieving these abilities.
“We need our college students to be ready globally for STEM careers, science and know-how and engineering,” she mentioned. “This places all of that in danger. We’ve got to do a reset. This can be a very severe challenge, and it isn’t going to go away by itself.”
___
By Collin Binkley AP Training Author
AP schooling author Bianca Vázquez Toness in Boston contributed to this report.
![](https://newspub.live/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/np-logo.png)
Maryland
University System of Maryland to only allow university-sponsored events on October 7
![University System of Maryland to only allow university-sponsored events on October 7 University System of Maryland to only allow university-sponsored events on October 7](https://ewscripps.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/937564c/2147483647/strip/true/crop/5312x2789+0+100/resize/1200x630!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fewscripps-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F16%2F61%2F70999d9446deb2038878edb3108f%2Fumd-administration-building-2015-1.jpg)
University of Maryland President William Pines announced this weekend that only university-sponsored activities “that promote reflection” will be held on October 7th.
The day will mark one year since Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel killed around 1,200 people and took around 250 hostages. Israel retaliated, declaring war on Hamas, which has resulted in more than 40,000 people dead, according to Gaza health officials.
This came after the Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) group had reserved the McKeldin Mall and Jewish organizations on campus had reserved Hornbake Plaza on October 7th to mark the day.
The announcement cancels both of these events.
“Jointly, out of an abundance of caution,” wrote Pines in an email to the campus community, “we concluded to host only university-sponsored events that promote reflection on this day. All other expressive events will be held prior to October 7, and then resume on October 8 in accordance with time, place and manner considerations of the First Amendment.”
This policy is in place for all University System of Maryland Schools.
“The intent is not to abridge students’ right to free expression; the intent is, instead, to be sensitive to the needs of our students. Our university communities may use this day to safely come together to reflect and to share, to learn and to listen, and, yes, to challenge one another. That’s the premise—and the promise—of higher education.”
-University System of Maryland Statement
SJP wrote in a statement on its Instagram account: “We as Students for Justice in Palestine are deeply angered, though not surprised, by the University of Maryland administration’s decision to cancel our reservation for a vigil at McKeldin Mall on October 7th.”
It continues, “Rest assured that we will find ways to mark this one year of genocide and one year of resistance.”
University of Maryland students worried about antisemitism on campus
The Jewish Student Union also posted a statement to its Instagram account.
“We are reassured to learn that Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Maryland will no longer be permitted to host their event on McKeldin Mall, or anywhere on campus, on October 7th,” the organization writes.
“Only university-sponsored events will occur on October 7th,” they continued. “While this is not an ideal situation, it ensures that our physical and psychological safety is protected on this day of grief.”
In the email from Pines, he noted that a safety assessment had been done and that there was “no immediate or active threat.”
The Jewish Student Union added that they would be holding an event to memorialize the day at Maryland Hillel, a center for Jewish life and students, which is located just off campus.
The UMD Chapter of Jewish Voice for Peace also released a statement standing with SJP “in their anger with the university admin’s decision to cancel our registration to hold a joint vigil on October 7th.”
The email from Pines added that “we encourage our entire community to mark the anniversary of October 7 with remembrance and reflection.”
At the moment, it’s unclear what university-sponsored events will take place on October 7th, at the College Park campus.
Maryland
Best Online Colleges In Maryland Of 2024
![Best Online Colleges In Maryland Of 2024 Best Online Colleges In Maryland Of 2024](https://www.forbes.com/advisor/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Maryland-1.jpg)
Pro Tip
Ensure that your prospective college offers globally recognized credentials if you plan to further your education or practice internationally.
Consider Your Future Goals
Considering your goals when choosing an online college helps you select a program that fits your current needs and prepares you for long-term success.
If you intend to work right after graduation, choose a program that aligns with your desired career path. Look for concentrations or specialized tracks that can provide in-depth knowledge in your field.
However, if you plan to pursue further education such as a master’s or doctoral degree, ensure that credits from your online college are transferable to other schools. Also ensure that the college’s credentials are globally recognized, if you intend to work or study abroad.
Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options
Online colleges in Maryland (particularly private institutions), can be quite expensive, compared to other online schools. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average undergraduate tuition and required fees for four-year public schools is $9,750 per year; meanwhile, enrollees in four-year private colleges may pay north of $38,000 per year.
If private university tuition is out of your budget, consider enrolling in a state-owned online school such as the University of Maryland Global Campus, which only requires about $8,000 in annual tuition and fees.
Aside from seeking affordable online programs, here are other ways to fund your college education:
- Complete the FAFSA®
- Apply for institutional scholarships
- Take a private student loan
- Enroll in a work-study program
- Ask your employer about a tuition reimbursement program
Maryland
Maryland voters weigh in on presidential election, governor’s approval in new Gonzales Poll
![Maryland voters weigh in on presidential election, governor’s approval in new Gonzales Poll Maryland voters weigh in on presidential election, governor’s approval in new Gonzales Poll](https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2024/09/03/38829637-9a7e-4385-b9c4-1dab1e5eb53d/thumbnail/1200x630/828b5ff2405662f3f8e86587e46507f2/maryland.jpg?v=25685eaa472b1a5dbb5bd46ae506d232)
BALTIMORE – With a little more than two months until election day, the majority of Marylanders surveyed in the new Gonzales Poll would vote for Vice President Kamala Harris over Donald Trump for president.
A total of 820 registered voters in Maryland who indicated they are likely to vote in the 2024 general election were queried for the poll by live telephone interviews, utilizing both landline and cellphone numbers between August 24 and August 30.
A cross-section of interviews was conducted throughout the state, reflecting Maryland’s general election voting patterns, the pollster said.
The Gonzales Poll stated that “the margin of error, per accepted statistical standards, is a range of plus or minus 3.5 percentage points and if the entire population was surveyed, there is a 95% probability that the true numbers would fall within this range.”
Presidential survey
According to the latest Gonzales Poll, 56% of Marylanders surveyed said they would vote for Harris over Trump for president.
The poll says 84% of Democrats support the Harris/Tim Walz ticket and 80% of Republicans support the Trump/JD Vance ticket. Also, 83% of Black voters polled would vote for Harris/Walz.
Among the independents, 38% favor Harris/Walz and 36% prefer Trump/Vance, according to the poll.
Gov. Moore’s approval gets a bump
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, who led the state’s response to the deadly Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in March, has the approval of 64% of Marylanders surveyed. Moore has a 35% “mostly soft approval” among Republicans who were surveyed (7% strongly approve, 28% somewhat approve),” the poll shows.
His approval rating increased by 33% since the last Gonzales Poll in the winter.
Last month, the governor spoke at the Democratic National Convention in support of Harris, who was nominated as the party’s presidential candidate.
He framed Harris’ candidacy as “the story of a prosecutor who defended our freedoms and had Maryland’s back when we needed it most. And now MVP: We’ve got yours.”
President Biden’s approval
The Gonzales Poll shows that 53% of Maryland voters surveyed approve of the job President Joe Biden is doing, while 45% disapprove. Seventy-six percent of the Democrats believe Biden is doing a good job in office, and 84% of Republicans disagree.
State transportation and juvenile reform
According to the poll, 95% of Marylanders think it is “important for the State to invest in improving its transportation infrastructure.”
And, when it comes to juvenile crime, voters were asked, “What type of laws, in your opinion, ultimately better help our children under 18 who commit crimes – Laws that are strict, which include things such as juvenile detention and boot camps. This hold individuals responsible and accountable for their behavior; or Laws that are lenient, which include social programs and counseling. This recognizes that society is responsible for much of this behavior?”
The poll shows that 58% of Marylanders are in favor of strict laws, which holds juveniles responsible and accountable for their behavior, and only 34% desire laws that are lenient.
“A majority of nearly every demographic group backs strict laws to inspire a sense of personal responsibility and to best assist our juvenile offenders ultimately realize at least a chance at a successful, happy life,” the poll said.
Is the country going in the right direction?
Fifty percent of Marylanders polled say the country is headed in the right direction, while 45% say the country is headed in the wrong direction.
According to the poll, 93% of Maryland voters who think the country is moving in the right direction are voting for Harris/Walz, and 70% of Maryland voters who think the country is moving in the wrong direction are voting for Trump/Vance.
In the previous poll, 41% of voters said the country was headed in the right direction.
“The mood of voters in Maryland vis-à-vis how they perceive things overall going in the country is a tad less grumpy than it was in winter,” the Gonzales Poll said.
-
Politics1 week ago
Why won't Pennsylvania voters have results on Election Night?
-
Politics1 week ago
Trump sets intense pace with campaign events as questions swirl about Harris' policy positions
-
World1 week ago
Portugal coast hit by 5.3 magnitude earthquake
-
News1 week ago
Former national security adviser McMaster says he won’t work for Trump again
-
World1 week ago
Who is Telegram CEO Pavel Durov? What to know about his arrest in France
-
Politics1 week ago
VP Harris' tiebreaker votes in Senate were key to inflation-boosting Biden policies: expert
-
World1 week ago
Photos: 300,000 in emergency shelters after Bangladesh floods
-
Science1 week ago
How much more water and power does AI computing demand? Tech firms don't want you to know