January 10, 2013…Maryland educators are celebrating today’s announcement that Education Week magazine has ranked Maryland’s public schools #1 in the nation for the fifth year in a row.
“What’s striking to me is that in the top three states—Maryland, Massachusetts, and New York—school employees are empowered through their unions to be strong partners in improving schools and student achievement,” said Betty Weller, president of the Maryland State Education Association. Weller is in her first year as president of MSEA and, with the state superintendent, has served as co-chair of the Maryland Council for Educator Effectiveness since its inception in 2010.
“I’m very proud of how MSEA’s members have kept the focus on improving student achievement, honing professional practice, and creating safe, supportive schools for all of our children,” said Weller. “This focus on supporting quality schools and effective teaching has been instrumental in Maryland’s consistent recognition as a national leader.”
Maryland received high marks on a range of measures, including K-12 achievement, school finance, and teacher quality, accountability, and support.The full Education Week report can be read by clicking here.