Maryland board adopts new multi-measure College and Career Readiness standard; funding tied to outcomes

The Maryland State Board of Education voted unanimously to adopt a revised College and Career Readiness (CCR) standard that uses multiple measures to identify students ready for postsecondary, credit-bearing coursework.

MSDE proposed two main options for meeting the CCR standard. Option 1 requires a high school unweighted GPA of at least 3.0 and evidence of math mastery (a grade of A, B or C in Algebra I or a proficient MCAP Algebra I score). Option 2 allows students who score proficient on both the English 10 and Algebra I MCAP assessments to meet the standard.

MSDE staff said the change responds to research from the American Institutes for Research (AIR) and stakeholder input, and is intended to be a more accurate, equitable predictor of postsecondary success than a single-test definition. The department noted survey feedback showing stakeholders prioritized overall high-school GPA and core-course performance alongside state assessments.

The board heard detailed implementation considerations from MSDE: data collection changes to the High School Data Collection (HSDC) to record new fields, a timeline that treats current 9th–12th graders (classes of 2024 through 2027) as within scope, and a funding implication that each student meeting the CCR standard will generate an additional $625 for schools/districts beginning in fiscal year 2026 if the student meets the standard this spring.

Board members asked about how the standard would avoid becoming a gatekeeper, what supports and staffing would be needed for implementation, and how to ensure consistency in grading and course selection. MSDE officials emphasized early-warning systems, school-based coaching and partnership with LEAs to develop a statewide secondary grading policy and guidance to standardize GPA computations.

The motion to adopt the CCR standard was made by Dr. Getty and seconded by Ms. Ayala; the board voted unanimously. MSDE said it will convene stakeholders and produce operational guidance for districts, including how the HSDC will be updated and how funding will be calculated from the 2023-24 academic year data.

MSDE officials also noted that the CCR funding is intended to cover costs associated with post-CCR pathways (dual enrollment, AP fees, early college, CTE); the department said the funds are allocated to schools and districts to support the cost of those programs so they remain free to students.