The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has taken a significant step toward addressing the educational challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. In a partnership with the National Partnership for Student Success (NPSS), MSDE is investing over $10 million in secondary math tutoring. This initiative aims to improve math proficiency among students in grades 6-8, specifically targeting learning loss exacerbated by the pandemic. Here, we explore the details and potential impact of this substantial investment on Maryland’s educational landscape.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Education

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted education systems worldwide, and Maryland is no exception. With schools shifting to remote learning, many students struggled to adapt to new methods of instruction. This disruption has been particularly noticeable in subjects like math, where hands-on guidance and in-person interaction are often crucial for understanding complex concepts. According to MSDE, math proficiency was already trending downward before the pandemic, and the shift to online learning further widened the gap.

The National Partnership for Student Success is a coalition focused on providing educational support and resources to students nationwide. Their collaboration with MSDE aims to create a robust tutoring program that addresses both immediate and long-term educational needs. The initiative will provide tutoring for students in grades 6-8 and those taking various levels of algebra. The focus is on “historically underserved students,” ensuring that the benefits of this program reach those who need it most.

How the Investment Will Be Used

The $10 million investment will fund the Maryland Tutoring Corps Grant Program. This program will support over 60,000 students and employ more than 800 tutors. The grants provided by MSDE can be used for payroll, materials, and supplies necessary for effective tutoring sessions. The program includes a 2-1 match fundraising mechanism, allowing local education agencies (LEAs) to triple the initial investment to $30 million. This innovative funding approach ensures that a wide range of resources will be available to maximize the program’s reach and effectiveness.

The primary goal of this initiative is to mitigate the learning loss experienced during the pandemic. Tutoring has been identified as a key strategy to help students catch up on missed content and reinforce their understanding of fundamental concepts. Research shows that high-dosage tutoring—intensive, regular sessions with trained tutors—can significantly improve student outcomes. By focusing on secondary math proficiency, MSDE aims to equip students with the skills they need to succeed academically and in future endeavors.

Benefits of the Tutoring Program

1. Personalized Attention: One of the main advantages of tutoring is the personalized attention students receive. Unlike in a crowded classroom, tutors can tailor their teaching methods to each student’s unique needs and learning style.

2. Building Confidence: Struggling with math can lead to a loss of confidence and motivation. Regular tutoring sessions help students overcome challenges and build self-assurance in their abilities.

3. Closing the Achievement Gap: Historically underserved students often face additional barriers to academic success. By targeting these students, the program aims to close the achievement gap and ensure equitable educational opportunities for all.

4. Long-Term Impact: Beyond immediate academic improvement, effective tutoring can have long-term benefits. Students who develop strong math skills are better prepared for higher education and various career paths in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.

Community Involvement and Support

Community involvement is crucial for the success of this initiative. Parents, teachers, and local organizations play a vital role in supporting students and creating a positive learning environment. By working together, the community can ensure that the benefits of the tutoring program are maximized and sustained over time.

The partnership between MSDE and NPSS represents a proactive approach to addressing the educational challenges posed by the pandemic. By investing in secondary math tutoring, Maryland is taking a significant step toward improving student outcomes and ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed. This initiative not only addresses current educational gaps but also lays the foundation for a more resilient and equitable education system in the future.In conclusion, the $10 million investment in math tutoring by MSDE, in partnership with NPSS, is a crucial step toward mitigating the impact of COVID-19 on education. By focusing on secondary math proficiency, this initiative aims to provide students with the support they need to overcome learning loss and achieve academic success. With community involvement and a focus on long-term impact, Maryland is setting a positive example for educational recovery and improvement.

Sources:

1. Maryland Education Department, National Partnership for Student Success to Invest in Math Tutoring: [Baltimore Fishbowl](https://baltimorefishbowl.com/stories/maryland-education-department-partners-with-national-partnership-for-student-success-to-invest-at-least-10m-in-secondary-math-tutoring/)
2. High-Dosage Tutoring Programs Expansion: [Baltimore Sun](https://www.baltimoresun.com/education/bs-md-high-dosage-tutoring-20230701-2j2l4db42nb53fxwupmwmdcd4y-story.html)
3. New Math Curriculum in Baltimore Schools: [WBAL TV](https://www.wbaltv.com/article/baltimore-schools-new-math-curriculum-2023/40356704)