MSDE launches 'Educate to Stop the Hate' committee to review social studies standards

Maryland State Department of Education staff told the State Board they will convene an "Educate to Stop the Hate" steering committee to review and, where needed, revise social studies standards and frameworks to address antisemitism, contemporary racism and other forms of hatred.

Dr. Collins described the committee’s charge: analyze standards and frameworks through a diversity, equity and inclusion lens; ensure classroom resources align to the charge; and make recommendations about professional learning and implementation supports. "We are going to convene the Educate to Stop the Hate committee to respond to what we feel is a very immediate need," Dr. Collins said.

Peter Ramsey, MSDE director of social studies, explained the distinction between standards (required learning expectations that LEAs must align to) and frameworks (nonbinding instructional guidance). Ramsey noted MSDE’s existing social studies standards are aligned to the national C3 (College, Career, and Civic Life) framework and that the committee will examine how grade-level expectations and objectives should be housed (standard vs. framework) to balance instructional fidelity and local flexibility.

MSDE outlined a committee model: two chairs, 5–6 educators, two parents, and two community or content experts, all to receive MSDE policy training. The review process will include an embedded 30-day public comment period and regular touchpoints with the State Board; MSDE staff said they aim to have professional‑development and implementation resources ready by June 2025.

Board members raised questions about whether grade-level expectations should be codified as standards (which are enforceable) or remain in frameworks (guidance). MSDE said the committee will be educated on the nuance and will provide recommendations on where expectations should reside.

Next steps: MSDE will publish the committee charge and application process for membership, create public-comment timelines and provide periodic updates to the board as the work proceeds.