Bill > HB226

This bill allows the Anne Arundel County Board of Education to implement a unique school scheduling model that reduces the traditional 180-school-day requirement while maintaining minimum instructional hours. Specifically, the board can eliminate early dismissal days and operate schools for fewer than 180 days, provided they meet the "minimal hours of attendance" as defined by state regulations (currently set at the minimum hours specified in COMAR 13A.03.02.12). If the board chooses this alternative scheduling model, they must apply it countywide and offer hourly-wage school employees an opportunity to make up lost wages through additional duties before the next school year begins. The bill requires the county board to submit detailed reports to the State Board of Education and the General Assembly for two consecutive years (2026 and 2027), including information about school operating days and student attendance hours. Importantly, this legislation is temporary, automatically expiring on June 30, 2027, which allows for a trial period to assess the effectiveness of the alternative scheduling approach. The bill aims to provide flexibility in school scheduling while ensuring students still receive sufficient instructional time.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0226?ys=2025RS