Maryland launches Maryland Core' service program; officials tout workforce and tutoring potential

Secretary Montero and Maryland Core staff described a new statewide service program created under the Serving Every Region Through Vocational Exploration (SERVE) Act, intended as a Maryland first‑in‑the‑nation service/career year model. The pilot launched in October with roughly 270 members in 19 jurisdictions; by law the program must reach 500 members in future years and MSDE/AIB staff said the goal is to expand to all 24 jurisdictions.

The program pairs full‑time service members with host‑site employers (for‑profit, nonprofit, government and higher education), pays at least $15 per hour, offers on‑site mentoring and accredited apprenticeships where available, and provides a $6,000 completion award depositable to a Maryland 529 account or paid as taxable cash. MSDE emphasized wraparound services (healthcare, childcare, transportation, behavioral health) to prevent attrition.

Speakers from WestEd and former Minnesota Serve leaders described evidence from randomized trials connecting AmeriCorps members to improved literacy outcomes when aligned with state priorities. Board and AIB members pressed for details on selection, geographic equity, employer training, preservice training, tracking alumni outcomes and third‑party evaluation. MSDE said a third‑party evaluation is required by statute and due to the General Assembly in 2028 and that the department will survey members and gather early metrics now.

Board members discussed education placements and cautioned about deployment in K–12 classrooms until preservice and supervision systems are in place. MSDE said the pilot focuses first on after‑school tutoring and enrichment and will expand into school placements in partnership with LEAs, apprenticeship systems and community colleges.

Secretary Montero asked for continued partnership with the boards to scale the program, improve employer engagement and craft pipelines to careers in public education and related fields.