Empower Maryland’s Future: Urgent Call to Governor and Lawmakers to Fully Fund the Blueprint Education Reform Plan

At a recent rally in Annapolis, 17-year-old student Qamryn Askew expressed his confidence in education as a solid investment. He highlighted the importance of fully funding the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, a comprehensive 10-year education reform initiative.

Askew, a senior at Baltimore Polytechnic Institute, shared his personal experience with the positive changes brought by the Blueprint. He mentioned improved resources in his school, particularly in the library, due to this funding initiative.

He was one of around 100 students, educators, and advocates at the rally, where they urged Governor Wes Moore and state lawmakers to fully support the Blueprint. The rally came at a time when lawmakers are considering changes to the plan in light of a projected $3 billion budget deficit for fiscal 2026.

Governor Moore’s proposals include delaying funding for collaborative time for teachers. This funding is essential for providing teachers with time to plan lessons and support students better. Currently, the plan is set to start next year at $163 per student, increasing annually. However, Moore’s plan would push back the starting date to 2030, raising concerns among advocates.

Many believe this delay will negatively impact both teachers and students. Sharlimar Douglass, an advocate for education equity, emphasized the need for the promised resources, stating, “Our teachers should get everything that the Blueprint said it would do.” She highlighted that collaborative time is crucial for improving teaching quality and student relationships.

Another significant concern is the proposed freeze on funding for community schools that serve students from low-income backgrounds. This freeze would save the state nearly $473 million over two years, but advocates argue that it would deprive vulnerable students of essential resources.

Liz Zogby, chair of the Maryland Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition, called for lawmakers to prioritize all students. She urged the government to continue supporting the Blueprint, reminding everyone that education is vital for all children’s futures.