Bill > HB986

This bill requires each county board of education to establish a new teacher retention program designed to support and motivate early-career educators. Specifically, the bill defines a "new teacher" as someone who has taught for less than 3 complete school years and mandates that the retention program include several key components: providing regular cohort-based opportunities for new teachers to share experiences, assigning an experienced teacher to oversee each cohort, matching new teachers with a highly competent mentor (who could be a retired teacher), conducting surveys about teaching challenges and school climate, providing principals with resources to support new teachers, and following state board guidelines. The program must prioritize supporting new teachers from diverse backgrounds and those in schools or subject areas with high teacher turnover rates. The bill also requires county boards to provide supplemental compensation or planning time to mentors and cohort leaders. Additionally, the State Board of Education must develop comprehensive guidelines for teacher support, including researching successful retention strategies, analyzing educator data, examining diversity issues, and addressing high-turnover areas. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, with the State Board required to update its guidelines by July 1, 2026, ultimately aiming to improve teacher retention and job satisfaction in the early years of their careers.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0986?ys=2025RS