Maryland announces salary increase to reduce vocational counselor vacancies
March 06, 2023 | Maryland Department of Education, School Boards, Maryland
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The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is taking significant steps to address the needs of individuals with disabilities, as highlighted in a recent meeting of the Commission to Study the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS). The meeting, held on March 6, 2023, revealed that the largest population served by DORS consists of individuals with cognitive disabilities, totaling 8,475, while the overall active caseload includes 10,838 individuals aged 14 to 25.
A pressing concern discussed was the current staffing shortages within DORS, particularly among Vocational Rehabilitation Services counselors. As of June 2022, there were 40 counselor vacancies and 59 claims examiner vacancies. In response, MSDE has implemented a competitive salary proposal, raising counselor salaries from approximately $42,000 to over $57,000, resulting in nearly a 20% pay increase for existing staff. This adjustment aims to attract and retain qualified personnel, with current vacancies now reduced to just nine counselors and one supervisory position.
In addition to addressing staffing issues, MSDE is launching a two-year pilot program in collaboration with the University of Maryland's Center for Transitioning and Career Innovation. This initiative aims to expedite the screening process and reduce waitlists for services, utilizing a fee-for-service model inspired by successful practices from Wisconsin. The program not only seeks to improve service delivery but also to identify best practices and necessary resources for scaling efforts in Maryland.
The discussions at the meeting underscore the commitment of MSDE and DORS to enhance support for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive timely and effective services. As these initiatives unfold, stakeholders anticipate a positive impact on the lives of many Maryland residents.
A pressing concern discussed was the current staffing shortages within DORS, particularly among Vocational Rehabilitation Services counselors. As of June 2022, there were 40 counselor vacancies and 59 claims examiner vacancies. In response, MSDE has implemented a competitive salary proposal, raising counselor salaries from approximately $42,000 to over $57,000, resulting in nearly a 20% pay increase for existing staff. This adjustment aims to attract and retain qualified personnel, with current vacancies now reduced to just nine counselors and one supervisory position.
In addition to addressing staffing issues, MSDE is launching a two-year pilot program in collaboration with the University of Maryland's Center for Transitioning and Career Innovation. This initiative aims to expedite the screening process and reduce waitlists for services, utilizing a fee-for-service model inspired by successful practices from Wisconsin. The program not only seeks to improve service delivery but also to identify best practices and necessary resources for scaling efforts in Maryland.
The discussions at the meeting underscore the commitment of MSDE and DORS to enhance support for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they receive timely and effective services. As these initiatives unfold, stakeholders anticipate a positive impact on the lives of many Maryland residents.
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