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BLUEPRINT PROGRESS
2024
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Washington County Public Schools (WCPS) wants to share information with our community about how the Blueprint is being implemented in our schools and gather feedback from our students, families, and staff about our progress.
The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, referred to as the Blueprint, is a law that was passed in 2021. The intent of the Blueprint is to create transformational change in Maryland’s public education system.
The WCPS Strategic Plan that is currently in progress will align with WCPS' Blueprint initiatives.
BLUEPRINT PILLAR 1: Early Childhood Education
Numerous research studies prove the academic benefits of prekindergarten (Pre-K). Investment in high-quality early learning experiences leads to more opportunities for children across the state to succeed. The Blueprint expands full-day Pre-K access so that all children are ready to learn and be successful when they enter kindergarten.
How is WCPS Implementing Pillar 1?
WCPS offers Pre-K to all 4-year-olds in Washington County, regardless of income level.
WCPS has Pre-K classrooms in every elementary school and two high schools.
WCPS continues to explore community partnerships to expand 3-year-old Pre-K for all eligible students.
WCPS currently ranks 4th in Maryland for Kindergarten Readiness.
BLUEPRINT PILLAR 2: High-Quality and Diverse Teachers and Leaders
The Blueprint seeks to elevate the teaching profession by offering competitive salaries and a salary progression model (career ladder) and raising expectations for teacher preparation, orientation, and mentoring programs to attract and retain high-quality teachers.
How is WCPS Implementing Pillar 2?
WCPS currently has the highest starting teacher salary in Maryland.
WCPS increased planning time for teachers by implementing a standard school schedule for middle school and high school.
WCPS staff are exploring new elementary models to increase planning, collaboration, and professional learning opportunities.
WCPS has increased the number of National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT) from 30 (prior to 2023) to 79 (as of December 2023).
BLUEPRINT PILLAR 3: College and Career Readiness (CCR)
The Blueprint ensures Maryland graduates are prepared for success in college and/or the workforce. The Blueprint requires schools to provide structures and plans for students who demonstrate the need for support.
How is WCPS Implementing Pillar 3?
WCPS has expanded course offerings for students to earn high school and college credit through Hagerstown Community College (HCC) at no cost to families.
WCPS offers Advanced PlacementⓇ and dual credit opportunities in every high school, and International BaccalaureateⓇ Programming at North Hagerstown High School and Northern Middle School.
WCPS provides teachers with an Essential Curriculum linked to Maryland standards and learning resources developed by WCPS educators.
WCPS implemented a system to support school staff in the identification of students with learning gaps and the creation of individualized plans to support the students.
WCPS continues to expand and refine career and technical education (CTE) pathways.
BLUEPRINT PILLAR 4: More Resources for Students to be Successful
In Maryland, schools with at least 55% of students eligible to receive free and reduced meals receive grant funding as a community school. Wraparound services are services for students with high needs provided at community schools before, during, or after the school day. The Blueprint focuses on strengthening wraparound services through the expansion of community schools. The Blueprint also focuses on resources for students with disabilities and multilingual students.
How is WCPS Implementing Pillar 4?
WCPS provides mental health services at all 46 schools.
WCPS has increased supports for mental health and behavioral needs in schools.
WCPS has increased supports for students with disabilities by expanding programs and professional development for staff.
WCPS has expanded services to Multilingual Learners by hiring additional tutors and teachers.
WCPS provides a community coordinator and nurse at each community school.
WCPS currently has 12 community schools: Bester Elementary, Eastern Elementary, E. Russell Hicks Middle School, Hickory Elementary, Jonathan Hager Elementary, Lincolnshire Elementary, Marshall Street School, Pangborn Elementary, Ruth Ann Monroe Primary, Salem Avenue Elementary, South Hagerstown High School, and Western Heights Middle School.
BLUEPRINT PILLAR 5: Governance and Accountability
The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future involves coordination between many agencies and institutions. The Blueprint establishes an Accountability Implementation Board (AIB) and Expert Review Teams (ERT). These entities hold the State and local education agencies accountable for Blueprint implementation. This pillar ensures WCPS complies with the funding model established under the Blueprint.
We want your feedback...
The feedback gathered through this survey will be used for WCPS’ consideration of current and future Blueprint initiatives.