Plain Text Law – COMAR 13A.12 — Educator Licensure

Regulation .01 Purpose.Link Copy Citation

Licensure is established to offer assurance to the citizens of this State that professional public educational staff possess the minimum essential knowledge and skills needed to achieve outcomes for public education declared by the State Board of Education, and maintain competent practice through career long-engagement with their content area, research, best practice, and expert opinion.

Regulation .02 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

A.

In this subtitle, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

B.

Terms Defined.

(1)

“Accredited nonpublic school” means a nonpublic school accredited by a national organization or regional organization.

(2)

“Approved nonpublic school” means a nonpublic school approved by a state department of education.

(3)

“Bilingual Education” means the teaching of academic content in two languages: a native and second language.

(4)

“Certificate” is the term for an educator credential issued by the Department. The term certificate has been replaced by the word license.

(5)

“Class” means a period allocated for lessons during a school day.

(6)

“Conditional license” means a non-renewable license issued while the applicant pursues a pathway to professional licensure.

(7)

“Content coursework” means coursework completed in academic disciplines as differentiated from pedagogical coursework.

(8)

“Continuing education units (CEUs)” means credit issued from an accredited International Association for Continuing Education and Training provider or approved by another Maryland State agency for purposes of licensure.

(9)

“Continuing professional development (CPD) credit” means credit earned through continuing professional development experiences approved by the Department.

(10)

“Crime against children” means any crime defined in Criminal Law Article, §3-601, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(11)

“Crime of violence” means any crime as defined in Criminal Law Article, §14-101, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(12)

“Culturally Responsive Teaching” means pedagogy that recognizes the importance of including students’ cultural references in all aspects of learning.

(13)

“Department” means the Maryland State Department of Education.

(14)

“Educator” means an individual who holds a license in an area of teaching, Professional and Technical Education, specialized areas for fine arts, specialist, administrator or supervisor.

(15)

“Effective performance” means professional, full-time experience as a specialist, administrator, or supervisor in a public school system, approved nonpublic school, or accredited nonpublic school for which the annual overall evaluation rating is at least effective or equivalent.

(16)

“Effective teaching experience” means professional, full-time experience as a teacher in a public school, approved nonpublic school, or accredited nonpublic school for which the annual overall evaluation rating is at least effective or equivalent.

(17)

“Endorsement” means a credential issued on a license under COMAR 13A.12.01.04C to indicate satisfactory knowledge and skills to perform services in the area(s) specified.

(18)

“English as a Second Language (ESOL)” means the practice and theory of learning and teaching English to students of which English is not the native language.

(19)

“English Language Learners (ELL)” means students who come from non-English speaking homes and who are learning English.

(20)

“Full-time teaching experience” means a period of not less than 9 consecutive months as the responsible teacher in a classroom under an appointment requiring service for 50 percent or more of the school week or the equivalent.

(21)

“Higher degree” means a degree earned that is higher than a bachelor’s degree such as a Ph.D., Ed.D., Ed.S., master’s degree, J.D., M.D., D.D.M., D.D.S., or L.L.M.

(22)

“Historic Professional Certificate” means a previously issued certificate or area of certification that no longer exists.

(23)

“Historic Professional License” means a license or area of licensure that no longer exists.

(24)

“Individual professional development plan (IPDP)” means a plan developed in partnership with a supervisor, if employed, to provide appropriate and relevant professional learning.

(25)

“Initial license” means the first Maryland professional license issued to an educator.

(26)

“Internship” means a supervised period of clinical experience offered by an educator preparation program designed to allow pre-service teachers to practice and refine their teaching skills.

(27)

“Interstate Certification Compact (ICC)” means a legal agreement with other states to facilitate the certification of out-of-State teachers and other professional educational personnel as authorized by Education Article, Title 6, Subtitle 6, Annotated Code of Maryland, or as otherwise provided by law.

(28)

“License” means an educator credential issued by the Department, which allows the holder to practice the area(s) of licensure noted.

(29)

“Local school system (LSS)” means a Maryland public school system.

(30)

“Member state” means a state that participates in the Interstate Certification Compact (ICC).

(31)

“Micro-credential” means a digital form of certification indicating the demonstration of competency/mastery in a specific skill or set of skills.

(32)

“Montessori school” means a public school that uses Montessori instruction as its primary method of instruction, or is approved by the Department.

(33)

“Nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.09” means a school that is issued a Certificate of Approval by the State Board, excluding the federal government or any State, county, or municipal agency or division of these, to operate an educational program in a nonpublic kindergarten, elementary school, and secondary school.

(34)

“Nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10” means:

(a)

An entity which is responsible for governing and operating a school that provides a Type I, Type II, Type III educational program in a facility licensed by a unit of State government to provide treatment of care, or both; or

(b)

Educational programs that provide special education to children in a nonpublic school in accordance with Education Article, §8-406, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(35)

“Occupational experience” means experience gained while employed performing in the career area to be taught.

(36)

“Pedagogy” means the method and practice of teaching.

(37)

“Professional and Technical Education” means areas of study which include skilled trades, applied sciences, modern technologies, and career preparation.

(38)

“Professional conference” means a workshop, institute, or seminar of 4 or more hours that contributes to ongoing, sustained, and high-quality professional development.

(39)

“Professional development activity” means an activity, approved by the Department, local school system, State Agency, Maryland-approved nonpublic school, or another state department of education, that improves the professional knowledge, competence, skill, or effectiveness of the license holder.

(40)

“Professional Development Point (PDP)” means a unit used to renew teacher licenses earned through completion of specific professionally aligned tasks and assignments.

(41)

“Professional education coursework” means coursework dealing with the knowledge and process of teaching to prepare to become a teacher, as differentiated from content coursework.

(42)

“Professional licensure” means holding a Temporary Professional, Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional License.

(43)

“Reinstatement” means restoration of an expired license.

(44)

“Renewal” means the extension of the validity period of an existing license.

(45)

“Required grade” means a grade of C or better, pass, or satisfactory.

(46)

“Resident Teacher License” means a license issued to a candidate enrolled in an alternative teacher preparation program.

(47)

“School” means a public school, an approved nonpublic school, or an accredited nonpublic school.

(48)

“Sheltered English instruction” means an instructional approach that engages English Language Learners (ELL) in developing grade-level content-area knowledge, academic skills, and increased English proficiency.

(49)

“Specialist” means an individual licensed under COMAR 13A.12.04.

(50)

“Teaching endorsement” means a teaching area added to a professional license of an educator who has met the qualifications of COMAR 13A.12.02.02B.

Regulation .03 Licensure Requirements of Education Personnel.Link Copy Citation

A.

The regulations in this subtitle are established as licensure standards for personnel educating students in a Maryland local school system, a State-operated school, and a nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10.

B.

A local school system, State-operated school, and nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 may establish additional requirements as a condition of employment.

C.

Personnel Subject to Licensure.

(1)

Teachers, specialists, administrators, and supervisors employed in a Maryland local school system, a State-operated school, and a nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 are subject to licensure.

(2)

Teachers. A teacher employed in an early childhood, elementary, pre-kindergarten—12 or secondary school program shall hold an appropriate license under COMAR 13A.12.02.

(3)

Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts. A Professional and Technical Education teacher or Specialized Area of Fine Arts teacher employed in an early childhood, elementary, pre-kindergarten—12 or secondary school program shall hold an appropriate license under COMAR 13A.12.03.

(4)

Specialists. A specialist employed in an early childhood, elementary, pre-kindergarten—12 or secondary school program shall hold an appropriate license under COMAR 13A.12.04 or a license in certain areas as otherwise provided in State law.

(5)

Administrators and Supervisors. Administrators and supervisors who have direct contact with students, who have responsibility for curriculum development, or who have responsibility for supervision of instruction shall meet the requirements for a professional license under COMAR 13A.12.05.

Regulation .04 Issuance and Types of Licenses.Link Copy Citation

A.

Application Procedure.

(1)

To obtain licensure in a specific area, an applicant, or local school system on behalf of the applicant, shall submit an application and documentation as required by the Department.

(2)

The Department or its designee shall evaluate the application and documentation and if the applicant satisfies the requirements, the Department shall issue the license.

(3)

An applicant shall present transcripts verified to the satisfaction of the Department.

(4)

An applicant shall present test scores to the Department in one of the following ways:

(a)

Directly from the testing company;

(b)

By notation on an official transcript;

(c)

By verification from a college or university;

(d)

By verification from a state department of education; or

(e)

With the applicant’s original score report or a copy of the score report verified to the satisfaction of the Department.

(5)

The Department shall maintain the file of an applicant for licensure who is not eligible for a license for 1 year from the date of the last correspondence, after which time the applicant may reapply.

(6)

It is the responsibility of the licensed individual to maintain the validity of the license and to provide the Department with current information including name, email address, mailing address, and phone number.

B.

Fee. The fee for the initial issuance and renewal of a license is provided in Education Article, §6-704(b), Annotated Code of Maryland, and the individual seeking issuance or renewal shall pay the Department by money order, certified check, cashier’s check, or electronic payment.

C.

Types of Educator Licenses.

(1)

Conditional License. The conditional license is a nonrenewable license valid for a period not to exceed 5 years issued only for licenses under COMAR 13A.12.02.02 and 13A.12.03.02.

(2)

Conditional Special Education License. The conditional special education license is a nonrenewable license valid for a period not to exceed 3 years issued only for licenses under COMAR 13A.12.02.02.

(3)

Resident Teacher License. The Resident Teacher license is valid for a period not to exceed 3 years issued only for licenses under COMAR 13A.12.02.02F.

(4)

Temporary Professional License. The Temporary Professional License is a nonrenewable license valid for a period not to exceed 2 years and issued only for licenses under COMAR 13A.12.02.02, 13A.12.03.02, and 13A.12.04.02.

(5)

Initial Professional License. The Initial Professional License is a renewable license valid for a period not to exceed 5 years.

(6)

Professional License. The Professional License is a renewable license valid for a period not to exceed 5 years.

(7)

Advanced Professional License. The Advanced Professional License is a renewable license valid for a period not to exceed 5 years.

(8)

Adjunct Teacher License. The Adjunct Teacher License is a renewable license valid for a period not to exceed 1 year issued only for licenses under COMAR 13A.12.02.02 and 13A.12.03.02.

(9)

Montessori Professional License.

(a)

The Montessori Professional License is valid for an indefinite period.

(b)

The Montessori Professional License may be issued to an individual who teaches students in a Montessori school and meets the eligibility criteria in 13A.12.02.02H.

(c)

An individual with a Montessori Professional License may not teach students in a public school that is not a Montessori school unless the individual meets the requirements relating to licensure of public school teachers.

D.

A historic Maryland license may not be issued as an initial license.

E.

Effective Dates of Licenses.

(1)

Issuance of a License. The Department shall issue a license to an applicant with the following effective dates:

(a)

If the license was issued from January 1 through June 30, the effective date of the license is January 1; and

(b)

If the license was issued from July 1 through December 31, the effective date of the license is July 1.

(2)

Multiple Licenses. Educators may hold multiple licenses.

(3)

Endorsements.

(a)

An individual who meets the qualification for initial licensure may add additional endorsements to the existing license.

(b)

The validity period for an endorsement is the same as the initial license.

(c)

The Department shall renew the endorsement when the initial license is renewed.

(4)

An educator who adds an additional license or endorsement to an existing license is not required to amend the Individualized Professional Development Plan or present additional renewal requirements during the current validity period.

(5)

An educator who meets the eligibility requirements to advance to the Professional License or Advanced Professional License under COMAR 13A.12.02.02, COMAR 13A.12.03.02, COMAR 13A.12.04.02, or COMAR 13A.12.05.02 shall retain all of the endorsements listed on the existing license.

F.

Deactivate a License or Teaching Endorsement.

(1)

An educator may request, in writing, to deactivate a license or teaching endorsement.

(2)

The educator shall meet the current regulatory requirements if the educator wishes to hold that license and/or teaching endorsement in the future.

(3)

An educator may not request the deactivation of a license to avoid disciplinary action.

G.

Licensure Plan.

(1)

A licensure plan may be issued to an applicant who does not meet the qualifications for a license.

(2)

A licensure plan is effective for a 5-year period.

(3)

If an applicant fails to satisfy the requirements for a professional license within the 5-year period, the applicant shall meet the requirements of the current applicable regulation.

Regulation .05 Military Reciprocity.Link Copy Citation

A.

A servicemember or spouse of a servicemember with a professional educator license or certificate from another state may apply for a comparable Maryland license if the servicemember or spouse:

(1)

Has moved to reside in Maryland because of orders for military service;

(2)

Provides a copy of the military orders to the Department as part of a licensure application;

(3)

Has actively used the license or certificate during the 2 years immediately preceding the move; and

(4)

Remains in good standing with the licensing authority that issued the license or certificate and with every other licensing authority that issued an educator license or certificate to the service member or spouse.

B.

A servicemember or spouse who meets the criteria in §(1) of this regulation shall meet the renewal requirements for the Maryland license issued.

Regulation .06 Reinstatement of an Expired Professional License.Link Copy Citation

A.

General.

(1)

An educator may not be employed under an expired license.

(2)

An educator who holds an expired Maryland Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional license in a teaching area may reinstate that license if the educator presents the professional development requirements under COMAR 13A.12.02.06.

(3)

An educator who holds an expired Maryland Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional license in an area of professional and technical education or specialized area of fine arts may reinstate that license if the educator presents the professional development requirements under COMAR 13A.12.03.05.

(4)

An educator who holds an expired Maryland Initial, Professional or Advanced Professional license in a specialist area may reinstate that license if the educator presents the professional development requirements under COMAR 13A.12.04.15.

(5)

An educator who holds an expired Maryland Initial, Professional or Advanced Professional license in an administrator area may reinstate that license if the educator presents the professional development requirements under COMAR 13A.12.05.15.

B.

Exemption. An educator holding an expired Maryland Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional license who presents a valid professional license issued by a member state, may reinstate the Maryland license.

C.

Historic Professional Certificate or License.

(1)

The Department shall issue an Initial Professional License to an educator who holds an expired Maryland Professional Eligibility Certificate or Standard Professional I Certificate and meets the requirements to reinstate a Maryland license under §A or B of this regulation.

(2)

The Department shall issue a Professional License to an educator who holds an expired Maryland Standard Professional II Certificate and meets the requirements to reinstate a Maryland license under §A or B of this regulation.

(3)

The Department shall issue an Advanced Professional License to an educator who holds an expired Maryland Advanced Professional Certificate and meets the requirements to reinstate a Maryland license under §§A or B of this regulation.

(4)

An educator who allows a license to expire that includes a historic endorsement area may not reinstate that area.

Regulation .07 Waiver of Licensure Requirements.Link Copy Citation

A.

Waiver of Licensure Requirements. Except for educator licensure tests, the State Superintendent of Schools or designee may waive the specific requirements for a license in an individual case if it is determined, after thorough investigation, that the applicant’s preparation or experience, or both, are adequate to justify a waiver.

B.

Senior Educator Waiver. Renewal requirements for any professionally licensed employee of a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10, may be waived if:

(1)

The professionally licensed employee is:

(a)

55 years old or older; or

(b)

Employed in public or approved nonpublic school service for at least 25 years; and

(2)

The request is recommended by the county superintendent, executive director, or chief officer of the legal authority having jurisdiction over the employee.

Regulation .01 Purpose.Link Copy Citation

A teacher employed in an early childhood, elementary, pre-kindergarten—12 or secondary school program shall hold an appropriate license under COMAR 13A.12.02.

Regulation .02 Licenses for Teachers.Link Copy Citation

A.

Temporary Professional.

(1)

The Temporary Professional Teacher License is valid for 2 years and may not be renewed.

(2)

A local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 may request a Temporary Professional License for an employee:

(a)

Who has completed an out-of-State teacher preparation program or holds a valid out-of-State professional license but has not submitted passing scores on Maryland teacher licensure tests; or

(b)

Who has failed to meet the renewal requirements of a professional license.

B.

Initial Professional.

(1)

The Initial Professional Teacher License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .03 of this chapter.

(2)

An applicant who has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under Regulation .03 of this chapter is eligible for an Initial Professional Teacher License.

C.

Professional.

(1)

The Professional Teacher License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .04 of this chapter.

(2)

An applicant who has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under Regulation .03 of this chapter is eligible for a Professional Teacher License if the applicant submits documentation:

(a)

Demonstrating completion of a Maryland induction program under COMAR 13A.07.01; or

(b)

Verifying 3 years of effective teaching performance.

D.

Advanced Professional.

(1)

The Advanced Professional Teacher License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .04 of this chapter.

(2)

An applicant who has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under Regulation .03 of this chapter is eligible for an Advanced Professional Teacher License if the applicant meets the requirements for the Professional Teacher License under §C of this regulation and submits documentation demonstrating that the applicant has:

(a)

A master’s degree or higher;

(b)

At least 30 semester hours of post baccalaureate credit; or

(c)

A National Board Certificate issued by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

E.

Conditional.

(1)

A conditional license is valid for 5 years and may not be renewed.

(2)

A local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall request a conditional license only if the school cannot fill a position with an individual who qualifies for a license under Regulation .03 of this chapter.

(3)

A conditional license may only be issued to an individual who possesses a bachelor’s degree or higher.

(4)

An applicant who is issued a conditional license shall pursue a pathway to professional licensure under Regulation .03 of this chapter.

F.

Conditional Special Education.

(1)

A conditional special education license is valid for 3 years and may not be renewed.

(2)

A local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall request a conditional license only if:

(a)

The school cannot fill a special education position with an individual who qualifies for a license under Regulation .03 of this chapter; and

(b)

The license holder receives sustained, intensive, classroom-focused professional development before and while teaching, and intensive supervision that consists of structured guidance and regular ongoing support and mentoring.

(3)

A conditional license may only be issued to an individual who possesses a bachelor’s degree or higher.

(4)

An applicant who is issued a conditional license shall pursue a pathway to professional licensure under Regulation .03A(1) and (2) of this chapter.

G.

Resident Teacher.

(1)

The Resident Teacher License is valid for 3 years and may not be renewed.

(2)

The provider of an alternative teacher preparation program approved under COMAR 13A.07.06, shall request a Resident Teacher License for a candidate before placement in a resident teacher assignment.

H.

Adjunct Teacher.

(1)

The Department may issue an adjunct license upon the request of a local school system superintendent or an education director of a nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10.

(2)

The local school system superintendent or education director of the approved nonpublic school shall include with a request for an adjunct license:

(a)

The name and credentials of the individual;

(b)

The course name and content to be taught; and

(c)

An explanation as to why the position cannot be filled by a qualified licensed educator.

(3)

The adjunct license is nontransferable between local school systems.

(4)

A local school system or nonpublic school may not employ an individual who holds an adjunct license as a full-time employee.

(5)

An applicant for an adjunct license shall:

(a)

Hold a high school diploma or its equivalent;

(b)

Hold an industry license, when applicable for the profession; and

(c)

Have 5 years of satisfactory occupational experience in the field to be taught.

(6)

The employing local school system or nonpublic school shall provide an individual who is issued an adjunct license with the following:

(a)

A professionally licensed mentor;

(b)

Side-by-side coaching or co-teaching with a professionally licensed teacher;

(c)

A minimum of 45 hours of professional development, with 30 hours delivered before entry to the classroom and the remainder to be delivered throughout the school year; and

(d)

Evaluations of the individual’s teaching effectiveness.

(7)

The adjunct license issued in accordance with this regulation is valid for a 1-year period and may be renewed upon the request of the local school system or nonpublic school.

I.

Montessori Professional License. An applicant may be eligible for a Montessori Professional License if the applicant submits documentation demonstrating the applicant has:

(1)

A bachelor’s degree or higher;

(2)

A valid credential from:

(a)

The American Montessori Society;

(b)

The Association Montessori Internationale; or

(c)

A program accredited by the Montessori Accreditation Council for Teacher Education; and

(3)

Passing scores as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a reading instruction licensure test approved by the State Board of Education, or attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor using a Department-provided observation tool.

Regulation .03 Pathways to Teacher Licensure.Link Copy Citation

A.

Pathways to Initial Teacher Licenses. Applicants shall meet the requirements of one pathway to earn initial teacher licensure.

(1)

Maryland Approved Program. Teacher candidates who complete a Maryland approved educator preparation program as set forth in COMAR 13A.07.06 shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Bachelor’s degree or higher;

(b)

Completion of an approved program as set forth in COMAR 13A.07.06;

(c)

Documentation of one of the following:

(i)

Passing score as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a basic literacy skills assessment as approved by the State Board of Education;

(ii)

Minimum overall cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale on the most recently earned degree; or

(iii)

Three years of effective evaluations from a local school system in Maryland.

(d)

Passing scores as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a content licensure test approved by the State Board of Education;

(e)

Passing scores as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a reading instruction licensure test approved by the State Board of Education, or attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor using a Department-provided observation tool; and

(f)

Meet one of the following qualifications:

(i)

Passing score as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a nationally recognized, portfolio-based performance assessment approved by the State Board of Education; or

(ii)

Completion of a comprehensive local school system teacher induction program that meets the requirements listed under §B(2) of this regulation.

(2)

In-District Training Program. Teacher candidates who are hired as a teacher of record in a Maryland local school system may complete a Department-approved in-district training program. Candidates seeking licensure under the in-district pathway shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Possession of a conditional license in the subject area and at the grade level of the license sought.

(b)

Demonstration of content knowledge by completing the following:

(i)

Bachelor’s degree or higher related to the field of the license sought;

(ii)

Bachelor's degree or higher in any field and a minimum of 24 semester hours of content coursework related to the license sought, which may be completed in-person, virtually, synchronously, and/or asynchronously; or

(iii)

Bachelor's degree or higher in any field and passing scores as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a content licensure test approved by the State Board of Education

(c)

Completion of a Maryland induction program under COMAR 13A.07.01 that includes:

(i)

On-site supervision and coaching;

(ii)

Ongoing instructional mentoring during the induction; and

(iii)

An effective, or comparable, rating on a summative evaluation of teaching performance at the end of the induction period.

(d)

Completion of a Department-approved sequence of pedagogical coursework, which may be completed in-person, virtually, synchronously, and/or asynchronously, as follows:

(i)

The teaching candidate shall ensure that this sequence of coursework is aligned to the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium standards; and

(ii)

The district and coursework provider shall agree to a memorandum of understanding.

(e)

Attestation from the district training program supervisor, or designee, school principal, and coursework provider, that the candidate is prepared for licensure.

(f)

Special Provisions. Candidates seeking licensure in the areas of elementary education, early childhood education, special education, and English to Speakers of Other Languages, shall complete additional requirements, as follows:

(i)

Candidates who fulfill §A(2)(b)(i) or (ii) of this regulation shall present 6 semester hours of coursework in each of the content areas of English, mathematics, science, and social studies; or

(ii)

Candidates who fulfill §A(2)(b)(iii) of this regulation shall submit passing scores on an approved elementary assessment that includes subtests in the content areas of English, mathematics, science, and social studies, each of which equals 6 semester hours of credit in that content area; and

(iii)

Passing score on a reading instruction test, approved by the State Board of Education, or provide attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor using a Department-provided observation tool.

(3)

Experienced Nonpublic School Teacher. Experienced teacher candidates working in Maryland nonpublic schools approved under COMAR 13A.09.09 shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Bachelor’s degree or higher related to the field of the license sought;

(b)

Verification of 5 years of effective teaching experience in the field and at the grade level of the license sought at a Maryland nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.09;

(c)

Meet one of the following qualifications:

(i)

Passing score as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a nationally recognized, portfolio-based performance assessment approved by the State Board of Education;

(ii)

An effective, or comparable, rating on a year-end evaluation if the individual is employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or approved nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10;

(iii)

Complete a comprehensive induction program under §B(2) of this regulation if the individual is employed by a Maryland local school system; or

(iv)

Hold a National Board Certificate from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards; and

(d)

Special Provision. Candidates seeking licensure in the areas of elementary education, early childhood education, special education, and English to Speakers of Other Languages, shall submit of a passing score on a reading instruction test, approved by the State Board of Education, or provide attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor using a Department-provided observation tool.

(4)

Out-of-State Teacher Preparation Program. Teacher candidates who complete a teacher preparation program in another state or foreign country shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Bachelor’s degree or higher, or a U.S. equivalent of a foreign degree;

(b)

Complete a teacher preparation program, to include a clinical internship, approved to lead to licensure in another state or foreign country, in the license area being sought;

(c)

Meet one of the following qualifications:

(i)

Passing score as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a nationally recognized, portfolio-based performance assessment approved by the State Board of Education;

(ii)

An effective, or comparable, rating on a year-end evaluation if the individual is employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or approved nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10;

(iii)

Complete a comprehensive induction program under §B(2) of this regulation if the individual is employed by a Maryland local school system; or

(iv)

Hold a National Board Certificate from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards; and

(d)

Special Provision. Candidates seeking licensure in the areas of elementary education, early childhood education, special education, and English to Speakers of Other Languages, shall submit a passing score on a reading instruction test, approved by the State Board of Education, or attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor using a Department-provided observation tool.

(5)

Out-of-State License. Teacher candidates who hold a valid professional license/certificate from another state or foreign country shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Bachelor’s degree or higher, or a U.S. equivalent for a foreign degree;

(b)

Valid, professional license or certificate from another state or foreign country in the license area being sought;

(c)

Meet one of the following qualifications:

(i)

Passing score as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a portfolio-based performance assessment approved by the State Board of Education;

(ii)

An effective, or comparable, rating on a year-end evaluation if the individual is employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or approved nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10;

(iii)

Complete a comprehensive induction program under §B(2) of this regulation if the individual is employed by a Maryland local school system; or

(iv)

Hold a National Board Certificate from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards; and

(d)

Special Provision. Candidates seeking licensure in the areas of elementary education, early childhood education, special education, and English to Speakers of Other Languages, shall submit a passing score on a reading instruction test, approved by the State Board of Education, or provide an attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor using a Department-provided observation tool.

(6)

National Board Certificate. Teacher candidates who hold a National Board Certificate shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Bachelor’s degree or higher; and

(b)

National Board Certificate issued from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, for which a comparable Maryland license exists.

(7)

Fine Arts Transcript Analysis. Individuals with content expertise in the areas of art, dance, music, or theater shall:

(a)

Obtain a bachelor’s degree or higher in the fine arts content area being sought;

(b)

Obtain a bachelor’s degree or higher in a fine arts area related to the area of licensure being sought, and 3 years of satisfactory content-related occupational experience, which may include satisfactory post-secondary teaching experience; or

(c)

Obtain a bachelor’s degree or higher in any field with:

(i)

At least 24 semester hours of content coursework in the fine arts license area sought; or

(ii)

A passing score as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a content assessment approved by the State Board of Education and 3 years of content-related occupational experience, which may include satisfactory post-secondary teaching experience in the area to be taught;

(d)

Complete 21 semester hours of credits of professional education coursework from an institution of higher education or through Department-approved continuing professional development credits, to include 3 credits for each of the following:

(i)

Methods of teaching;

(ii)

Introduction to special education;

(iii)

Human growth and development;

(iv)

Assessment;

(v)

Literacy in the content area;

(vi)

Culturally responsive teaching/multicultural education/strategies for multilingual learners; and

(vii)

Classroom management; and

(e)

Meet one of the following qualifications:

(i)

Obtain a passing score as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a nationally recognized, portfolio-based performance assessment approved by the State Board of Education;

(ii)

Obtain effective, or comparable, ratings on two, year-end evaluations if the individual is employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or approved nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10; or

(iii)

Complete a comprehensive induction program under §B(2) of this regulation if the individual is employed by a Maryland local school system.

(8)

Secondary Content Transcript Analysis. To earn a 7-12 grade band license, individuals with secondary content expertise shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Obtain a bachelor’s degree or higher:

(i)

In the content area being sought;

(ii)

In any field with a minimum of 24 semester hours of content coursework in the area of license sought;

(iii)

In any field with 3 years of content-related occupational experience and a passing score as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a content assessment approved by the State Board of Education; or

(iv)

In any field with 3 years of experience teaching at an accredited institution of higher education in the content area sought; and

(b)

Complete 21 semester hours of credits of professional education coursework from an institution of higher education or through Department-approved continuing professional development credits, to include 3 credits for each of the following:

(i)

Methods of teaching;

(ii)

Introduction to special education;

(iii)

Human growth and development;

(iv)

Assessment;

(v)

Literacy in the content area;

(vi)

Culturally responsive teaching/multicultural education/strategies for multilingual Learners; and

(vii)

Classroom management; and

(c)

Meet one of the following qualifications:

(i)

Obtain a passing score as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a nationally recognized, portfolio-based performance assessment approved by the State Board of Education;

(ii)

Obtain effective, or comparable, ratings on two, year-end evaluations if the individual is employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or approved nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10; or

(iii)

Complete a comprehensive induction program under § B(2) of this regulation if the individual is employed by a Maryland local school system.

B.

Special Provisions.

(1)

The Department shall evaluate credits from institutions in other countries for comparability of degree and coursework by an independent agency authorized to analyze foreign credentials and designated by the Department. The evaluation is final.

(2)

Comprehensive Induction Program. A comprehensive induction program shall:

(a)

Be developed by a local school system, either independently or collaboratively with other local school systems;

(b)

Be approved by the Department;

(c)

Last the lesser of 3 years or the amount of time a teacher holds a conditional license; and

(d)

Include a locally developed portfolio component that is aligned with the Interstate Teacher Assessment and Support Consortium Standards.

Regulation .04 Renewal and Advancement of a Teacher License.Link Copy Citation

A.

General.

(1)

An applicant who holds a license is responsible for initiating the renewal of the license.

(2)

An applicant shall ensure renewal requirements are received before the expiration date of the license to be considered continuous.

(3)

Failure to Meet Requirements. Failure to meet the requirements of this section results in nonrenewal of the license.

(4)

A local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 may request a Temporary Professional License under Regulation .02A of this chapter for an employee who fails to meet the renewal requirements of the Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional license.

B.

Professional Development Requirements. The Initial Professional, Professional, and Advanced Professional license may be renewed for successive 5-year terms on the successful completion of the requisite number of professional development points (PDPs) as set forth in Regulation .06 of this chapter based on an individual professional development plan as set forth in Regulation .05 of this chapter that is designed to improve teaching and student learning and that is approved, if required, by the educator’s supervisor.

C.

Application Process.

(1)

Renewal. An educator may renew their existing Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional License by submitting:

(a)

A completed application, in the manner required by the Department;

(b)

A statement, signed under the penalty of perjury, that the applicant has completed all requirements for licensure renewal, including the requisite number of Professional Development Points under an Individual Professional Development Plan; and

(c)

The required fee.

(2)

Advancement. An educator may request advancement to a new level of licensure by submitting:

(a)

A completed application, in the manner required by the Department;

(b)

Supporting documentation demonstrating the applicant has met the requirements for the new level of licensure; and

(c)

The required fee.

(3)

All documentation submitted is subject to audit by the Department, and the educator shall provide additional documentation to the Department on request.

(4)

Individuals employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10, may submit documentation directly to the employer.

(5)

Individuals who are not employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall submit documentation directly to the Department.

Regulation .05 Individual Professional Development Plans.Link Copy Citation

A.

Individual Professional Development Plans.

(1)

An educator shall have an individual professional development plan in place for each of the 5 years of validity for each Initial Professional, Professional, and Advanced Professional license issued to the educator.

(2)

An educator shall ensure this individual professional development plan includes a minimum of 90 professional development points as set forth in Regulation .06 of this chapter, to renew the educator’s License.

(3)

Educators who are not employed with a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 are responsible for developing their own individual professional development plan.

B.

Approval of an Individual Professional Development Plan.

(1)

Educators working in a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall obtain approval of their proposed individual professional development plan from their supervisors.

(2)

The educator’s supervisor, or an appropriate designee, shall approve proposed individual professional development.

(3)

Educators shall obtain initial approval of their individual professional development plan within 6 months of issuance of the license to be renewed.

(4)

Supervisor Review.

(a)

A supervisor shall review the existing individual professional development plan of any educator new to the district or school within 3 months of the educator’s beginning employment in the new position.

(b)

A supervisor may require an educator to amend the plan or may withdraw approval for a plan that had been previously approved, but the Department shall approve any professional development points that were earned consistently with an approved plan in the application for license renewal.

(5)

Signatures.

(a)

Before applying to renew an Initial Professional, Professional, and Advanced Professional license, educators shall obtain a signature from a current supervisor.

(b)

A supervisor’s signature shall indicate that the supervisor has reviewed the log of professional development activities maintained by the educator to ensure that the reported activities are consistent with the approved individual professional development plan.

(c)

The educator remains responsible for the final accounting of professional development points applied towards license renewal.

(d)

An educator whose supervisor refuses to sign an individual professional development plan may follow the review procedures set forth in §B(7) of this regulation.

(6)

Approval of an individual professional development plan may not be unreasonably withheld by a supervisor.

(7)

If a plan is rejected by a supervisor, an educator may seek review of the denial from:

(a)

The superintendent of schools, or designee, if employed with a local school system;

(b)

The Chief Officer of the Legal Authority, or designee, if employed with a nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10; or

(c)

The Executive Director, or comparable position, if employed with a State-operated school.

Regulation .06 Professional Development Points.Link Copy Citation

A.

Professional Development Point (PDP). The Department shall measure professional development activities as follows:

(1)

1 clock hour is equivalent to one PDP.

(2)

1 semester hour is equivalent to 15 PDPs.

(3)

One Department-approved continuing professional development credit is equivalent to 15 PDPs.

(4)

One continuing education unit is equivalent to ten PDPs.

B.

Educators applying to renew an Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional License shall complete a minimum of 90 PDPs that shall include:

(1)

Content or pedagogy related to an area on the educator’s license;

(2)

English as a Second Language, Sheltered English, or Bilingual Education;

(3)

Strategies for teaching students with disabilities, or differentiated instruction for students with diverse learning needs; and

(4)

Culturally Responsive Teaching or diverse student identities in education.

C.

Additional Requirements for Specific Licensure Areas.

(1)

Blind/Visually Impaired. Teachers who hold a license in the area of the Blind/Visually Impaired shall present a minimum of 15 PDPs in braille maintenance.

(2)

School Counselor. An educator who is licensed as a School Counselor shall present 1 semester hour of coursework from an institution of higher education, one Department-approved continuing professional development credit; or an equivalent number of continuing education units that address the following:

(a)

Depression;

(b)

Trauma;

(c)

Violence;

(d)

Youth suicide;

(e)

Substance abuse; and

(f)

The identification of professional resources and best practices for distributing resources to parents or guardians to help students in crisis.

(3)

Administrator. If an educator is employed in a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 and assigned in an administrator or supervisor position, the educator shall submit PDPs which include:

(a)

Strategies for increasing teacher retention; and

(b)

Strategies for developing and facilitating teacher leadership.

D.

Special Provision. Beginning on July 1, 2025, all teachers employed in a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 in a position that requires a license in early childhood education, elementary education, special education, or English to Speakers of Other Languages shall demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and practices of scientific reading instruction, to include phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, as follows:

(1)

Demonstration of proficiency may be satisfied by submitting one of the following:

(a)

A passing score on a reading instruction test approved by the State Board of Education;

(b)

Completion of coursework or professional learning approved by the Department;

(c)

Submission of attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor; or

(d)

Completion of training provided by the Department in the science of reading for the purpose of fulfilling the requirements of renewal.

(2)

A license holder required to demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and practices of scientific reading instruction shall present the requirements in §D(1) of this regulation when renewing a license, as follows:

(a)

The license holder may submit verification of enrollment in §D(1)(b) or (d) of this regulation to satisfy the terms of renewal.

(b)

The license holder shall present documentation demonstrating completion of §D(1)(b) or (d) of this regulation by the subsequent renewal.

(3)

A license holder is considered proficient in the knowledge and practices of scientific reading instruction when the requirements of this section have been submitted.

(4)

The Department shall ensure this license indicates that a license holder is proficient in the knowledge and practices of scientific reading instruction.

E.

Professional development points may be accrued by the completion of one of more of the following:

(1)

College credit earned or taught at an accredited institution of higher education.

(2)

Continuing professional development (CPD) credits, earned or taught, approved by the Department.

(3)

Continuing education units (CEUs) from an accredited International Association for Continuing Education and Training provider or approved by another Maryland State agency for purposes of licensure.

(4)

Professional conference. A professional conference is a workshop, institute, or seminar of 4 or more hours that contributes to ongoing, sustained, and high-quality professional development.

(5)

Curriculum Development.

(a)

Curriculum development is a group activity in which the license holder contributes to the improvement of the curriculum of a school, a school division, or an educational institution.

(b)

This includes the alignment of curriculum frameworks, instructional materials, and assessments to provide a system with clear expectations of what is to be taught and learned.

(c)

For each curriculum developed, the Department shall award the educator up to 30 PDPs.

(6)

Publication of a Book or Article.

(a)

The license holder shall ensure that the book or article contributes to the education profession or to the body of knowledge of the license holder’s teaching area or instructional position.

(b)

The educator shall ensure that an article is published in a recognized professional journal.

(c)

The educator shall ensure that books are published for purchase.

(d)

For each book published, the Department shall award the educator up to 75 PDPs. For each article published, the Department shall award the educator up to 10 PDPs.

(7)

Mentorship.

(a)

Mentoring is the process by which an experienced professional who has received mentorship training helps one or more individuals to improve their performance.

(b)

Assistance may involve role modeling, direct instruction, demonstration, observation with feedback, developing of plans, and consultation to promote instructional excellence and increased student achievement.

(c)

Mentoring may include the supervision of a field experience of a pre-service student teacher or an intern in an approved teacher preparation program, as well as mentoring as part of the induction process for a beginning teacher.

(8)

Micro-Credentials.

(a)

Micro-credentials are a digital form of certification indicating demonstrated competency/mastery in a specific skill or set of skills.

(b)

Educators identify a competency they want to develop, submit evidence that they have mastered the competency, and receive a digital badge once the evidence is approved.

(c)

Micro-credentials can be earned by non-profit and for-profit entities approved by the local school system, State-operated school, nonpublic school, or the Department.

(d)

For each micro-credential earned, the Department shall award the educator up to 10 PDPs.

(9)

Professional Development Activity.

(a)

The Department shall accept professional development activities approved by the Department, Maryland local school system, State Agency, a Maryland approved nonpublic school, or another state department of education.

(b)

The license holder shall ensure that each activity is a minimum of 1 contact hour.

F.

An educator who earns a National Board Certificate from the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards may present that certificate when subsequently renewing a Maryland Educator License as a substitute for §B of this regulation.

Regulation .07 Teaching Endorsements.Link Copy Citation

A.

An individual who meets the qualification for initial licensure under Regulation .03 of this chapter may add an additional teaching endorsement by submitting documentation demonstrating that the applicant has obtained:

(1)

A qualifying score, as established by the State Superintendent of Schools, on the content-specific test(s) approved by the State Board of Education; or

(2)

Twenty-four content credits as follows:

(a)

For elementary or early childhood education, 24 credits distributed across the four content areas of English, social studies, math, and science, with at least 6 credits in each content area;

(b)

For secondary, middle school, pre-kindergarten—12 education, 24 credits, at least 12 of which are in the area for which the new licensure is sought and 12 of which are in content-related areas; or

(c)

For special education, 24 credits, at least 12 of which are in the age-appropriate area of special education and 12 of which are in related areas or researched-based literacy instruction aligned to the science of reading.

B.

Special Provisions.

(1)

To receive an endorsement in Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education, English for Speakers of Other Languages, and Special Education, an educator shall qualify under §A of this regulation and demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and practices in scientific reading instruction, to include phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, by:

(a)

Submitting a passing score on a reading instruction test, approved by the State Board of Education;

(b)

Completion of coursework or professional learning approved by the Department, and provided by a Department-recognized partner approved to deliver instruction in the science of reading;

(c)

Submission of attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor; or

(d)

Completion of training provided by the Department in the science of reading for the purpose of fulfilling the requirements of renewal.

(2)

To receive an endorsement in Deaf and Hard of Hearing or Blind/Visually Impaired, an educator shall meet the requirements for initial licensure under Regulation .03 of this chapter.

C.

Certain areas of licensure require that the educator hold an existing teacher license and shall only be added as an endorsement, as follows:

(1)

Mathematics Instructional Leader Grades Pre-Kindergarten—6. To add Mathematics Instructional Leader, grades pre-kindergarten—6, an applicant shall:

(a)

Hold a valid, professional license;

(b)

Complete a minimum of 18 semester hours of post-baccalaureate credit, or Department-approved continuing professional development credits, which include the following areas:

(i)

Content knowledge for teaching mathematics, including numbers and operations, algebra and functions, geometry and measurement, and data analysis and probability;

(ii)

Pedagogical knowledge for teaching mathematics, including learners and learning, teaching, curriculum, and assessment;

(iii)

Leadership knowledge and skills; and

(iv)

At least 3 semester hours or the equivalent in a supervised practicum or school-based internship in which the applicant works with a range of students in grades pre-kindergarten—6 and adult learners in a variety of professional development settings; and

(c)

Present verification of 27 months of satisfactory teaching experience including mathematics.

(2)

Mathematics Instructional Leader Grades 4—9. To add Mathematics Instructional Leader, grades 4—9, an applicant shall:

(a)

Hold a valid, professional license in Middle School Mathematics;

(b)

Complete a minimum of 21 semester hours of post-baccalaureate credit, or Department-approved continuing professional development credits, which include the following areas:

(i)

Content knowledge for teaching mathematics, including number and operations, algebra and functions, geometry and measurement, data analysis and probability, calculus, and discrete mathematics;

(ii)

Pedagogical knowledge for teaching mathematics, including learners and learning, teaching, curriculum, and assessment;

(iii)

Leadership knowledge and skills; and

(iv)

At least 3 semester hours or the equivalent in a supervised practicum or school-based internship in which the candidate works with a range of students in grades 4—9 and adult learners in a variety of professional development settings; and

(c)

Present verification of 27 months of satisfactory teaching experience including mathematics.

(3)

Instructional Leader: STEM Grades Pre-Kindergarten—6. To add Instructional Leader: STEM, grades pre-kindergarten—6, an applicant shall:

(a)

Hold a valid, professional license in early childhood education or elementary education;

(b)

Complete a minimum of 12 semester hours of post-baccalaureate credit or Department-approved continuing professional development credits, to include the following:

(i)

12 semester hours in STEM education which integrates a balance of authentic problem-based and project-based learning;

(ii)

Essential skills including questioning, spatial reasoning, communication, critical thinking, and problem solving;

(iii)

Engineering design process;

(iv)

Application of scientific practices and content;

(v)

Application of mathematical practices and content;

(vi)

Technology literacy; and

(vii)

Collaborative learning;

(c)

Complete 3 semester hours or the equivalent in leadership knowledge and skills in providing professional learning in a school/district setting;

(d)

Complete at least 3 semester hours or the equivalent in a supervised practicum or school-based internship in which the applicant works with a range of students in grades pre-kindergarten—6 and adult learners in a variety of professional development settings; and

(e)

Present verification of 27 months of satisfactory teaching experience.

(4)

Severe and Profound Disabilities. To add a Severe and Profound Disabilities endorsement, an educator shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Special Education Licensure. The applicant shall meet the requirements for licensure in generic special education at any age/grade level; and

(b)

Content and Professional Education Courses. The applicant shall have:

(i)

3 semester hours in human growth and development emphasizing knowledge of the developmental characteristics (physical, biological, cognitive—learning, and social/emotional) of students with severe and profound disabilities;

(ii)

6 semester hours in assessment, diagnosis, and prescriptive techniques emphasizing specialized knowledge, interpretation and application of appropriate assessment, diagnostic and prescriptive methods to evaluate and develop programs geared toward the individualized needs of students with severe and profound disabilities;

(iii)

6 semester hours in curriculum and instructional methods emphasizing specialized strategies, techniques, materials, and adaptations appropriate to the instruction of students with severe and profound disabilities; and

(iv)

6 semester hours in practicum with students with severe and profound disabilities or 2 years of successful teaching experience with students with severe and profound disabilities.

(5)

Work-Based Learning Coordinator Grades 7-12. To add Work-Based Learning Coordinator, an educator shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Hold a professional license in a secondary teaching area or pre-kindergarten—12 teaching area;

(b)

Complete 6 semester hours of content coursework taken at an accredited institution of higher education or through CPDs, with a minimum of 3 semester hours in each of the following content areas:

(i)

Organizing, coordinating, and marketing of work-based learning programs; and

(ii)

Instructional management and curriculum development for work-based learning programs; and

(c)

Complete a work experience requirement through any of the following:

(i)

Documented evidence of employment equivalent to a minimum of 1,000 hours of satisfactory, wage-earning, nonteaching occupational experience;

(ii)

Documented evidence of employment equivalent to a minimum of 1,000 hours that shall include 500 hours of satisfactory, wage-earning, nonteaching occupational experience and 500 hours of self-employment;

(iii)

Participating in a supervised and approved teacher externship experience of at least 150 hours, to include all aspects of the industry in accordance with the local school system guidelines for work-based learning coordinator externships at a work site approved by the local school system; or

(iv)

Complete 3 semester hours of content coursework in contemporary workplace practices taken at an accredited institution of higher education or through CPDs that includes site visits to business and industry settings and exposure to all aspects of the industry.

(6)

All work experience under §C(5)(c) of this regulation shall have occurred within 10 years of the educator’s request to add the endorsement.

(a)

The educator shall submit verification of occupational experience in the form of a notarized letter by former employers, listing specific job titles, duties performed, dates of employment, and hours worked.

(b)

The educator shall verify self-employment by license or by submitting tax forms.

Regulation .08 Assignment.Link Copy Citation

A.

License Required for Major Assignment. Each teacher employed in Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall hold an Initial, Professional, or Advanced Professional license in the teacher’s area of major assignment.

B.

Assignment to More Than Two Classes Outside Area of Licensure.

(1)

A teacher should not be assigned to teach more than two classes outside the teacher’s area of licensure.

(2)

If a school finds it necessary to assign a teacher to more than two classes unrelated to the teacher’s area of licensure, the teacher shall provide documentation verifying competence teaching in the area for each consecutive year after the first year that a teacher is assigned. Competency may be demonstrated by:

(a)

Submitting a minimum of 6 semester hours of content coursework in the area; or

(b)

Submitting an effective, or comparable, end-of-year evaluation.

(3)

Title I Schools.

(a)

Title I schools shall notify parents that they can request specific information about a teacher’s qualifications.

(b)

Title I schools shall notify parents and guardians of each student who is being taught by a teacher who is teaching an area unrelated to their licensure for four or more consecutive weeks.

(4)

Class means a period allocated for lessons during a school day.

C.

Monitoring. The Department shall monitor the assignment practices of local school systems, State-operated schools, and nonpublic schools approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 on a periodic basis.

Regulation .01 Purpose.Link Copy Citation

A.

Professional and Technical Education and Specialized Areas for Fine Arts teachers shall meet the requirements for a license under Regulation .02 of this chapter.

B.

A Professional and Technical Education or Specialized Areas for Fine Arts license shall only be used for instruction in a specialized program or at a specialized school.

C.

A local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall request an initial Professional and Technical Education or Specialized Areas for Fine Arts license.

D.

An individual licensed in Professional and Technical Education or Specialized Areas for Fine Arts who is no longer employed with a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 may request the renewal of that license directly from the Department.

Regulation .02 Licenses and Pathways for Professional and Technical Education and Specialized Areas for Fine Arts.Link Copy Citation

A.

Types of Professional and Technical Education and Specialized Areas for Fine Arts Licenses.

(1)

Temporary Professional.

(a)

The Temporary Professional License is valid for 2 years and may not be renewed.

(b)

A local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 may request a Temporary Professional License for an applicant who does not meet the renewal requirements of a professional license.

(2)

Initial Professional.

(a)

The Initial Professional License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .03 of this chapter.

(b)

An applicant who is employed in a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 and has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under §C of this regulation is eligible for an Initial Professional License.

(3)

Professional.

(a)

The Professional License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .03 of this chapter.

(b)

An applicant who is employed in a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 and has met one of the pathways to licensure under §C of this regulation is eligible for a Professional License if the applicant submits documentation:

(i)

Demonstrating completion of a Maryland induction program under COMAR 13A.07.01; or

(ii)

Verifying3 years of effective teaching performance.

(4)

Advanced Professional.

(a)

The Advanced Professional License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .03 of this chapter.

(b)

An applicant who has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under §B of this regulation is eligible for an Advanced Professional Teacher License if the applicant meets the requirements for the Professional License under §A(3) of this regulation and submits documentation demonstrating that the applicant has:

(i)

A master’s degree or higher;

(ii)

At least 30 semester hours of post baccalaureate credit; or

(iii)

A National Board Certificate issued by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

(c)

An applicant for the Advanced Professional License in a Professional Technical Education/Specialized Area of Fine Arts area who does not possess a bachelor’s degree shall complete a planned program of 30 semester hours of credit, or submit a National Board Certificate issued by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

(5)

Conditional.

(a)

A conditional license is valid for 5 years and may not be renewed.

(b)

A local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 may request a conditional license if:

(i)

The school cannot fill a position with an individual who qualifies for a license under §A(1)—(4) of this regulation; and

(ii)

The individual presents verification of 3 years of occupational experience in the career area to be taught as defined in §C(5)(a) of this regulation.

(c)

An applicant who is issued a conditional license shall pursue a pathway to professional licensure under §C of this regulation.

(6)

Adjunct Teacher.

(a)

The Department may issue an adjunct license on the request of a local school system superintendent or an education director of a nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10.

(b)

The request for adjunct license shall include:

(i)

The name and credentials of the individual;

(ii)

The course name and content to be taught; and

(iii)

An explanation as to why the position cannot be filled by a qualified license holder.

(c)

The adjunct license is nontransferable between local school systems.

(d)

A local school system or nonpublic school may not employ an individual who holds an adjunct license as a full-time employee.

(e)

An applicant for an adjunct license shall:

(i)

Hold a high school diploma or its equivalent;

(ii)

Hold an industry license, when applicable for the profession; and

(iii)

Have 5 years of satisfactory occupational experience in the field to be taught.

(f)

The employing local school system or nonpublic school shall provide an individual who is issued an adjunct license the following:

(i)

A professionally licensed mentor;

(ii)

Side-by-side coaching or co-teaching with a professionally licensed teacher;

(iii)

A minimum of 45 hours of professional development, with 30 hours delivered before entry to the classroom and the remainder to be delivered throughout the school year; and

(iv)

Evaluations of the individual’s teaching effectiveness.

(g)

The adjunct license issued in accordance with this regulation is valid for a 1-year period and may be renewed on the request of the local school system or nonpublic school.

B.

In addition to holding an educator license, the applicant is governed by current licensure, certification, or registration regulations administered by professional organizations or legally constituted authorities in the State, in the career area to be taught, if applicable.

C.

Pathways to Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts Licensure.

(1)

Maryland Approved Program. Candidates who complete a Maryland approved educator preparation program as set forth in COMAR 13A.07.06 shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Bachelor’s degree or higher; and

(b)

Completion of an approved program as set forth in COMAR 13A.07.06.

(2)

Out-of-State Preparation Program. Candidates who complete a state-approved educator preparation program leading to licensure in that state shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Bachelor’s degree or higher; and

(b)

Complete a preparation program, including a clinical internship, approved to lead to professional and technical education licensure in another state, in the license area being sought.

(3)

Out-of-State License. Candidates who hold a valid or expired professional license/certificate in a professional and technical education area from another state or foreign country are eligible for a comparable Maryland license.

(4)

National Board Certificate (Professional and Technical Education only). Candidates who hold a National Board Certificate in the area of Career and Technical Education are eligible for a comparable Advanced Professional License.

(5)

Occupational Experience. Candidates with occupational experience in a Professional and Technical area or Specialized Area of Fine Arts shall meet the following requirements:

(a)

Occupational Experience.

(i)

Verification of 3 years of occupational experience in the area to be taught that may include satisfactory post-secondary teaching experience in the area to be taught; and/or satisfactory occupational employment.

(ii)

The applicant may substitute a Department-accepted, current industry recognized credential for 1 year of the occupational experience requirement.

(iii)

The applicant may substitute a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in the area to be taught for 1 year of the occupational experience requirement.

(b)

Completion of 12 credits of professional education coursework from an institution of higher education or through Department-approved continuing professional development credits to include the following topics:

(i)

Planning, delivering, and assessing instruction;

(ii)

Classroom management;

(iii)

Differentiating Instruction to accommodate students with special needs; and

(iv)

Teaching literacy in the content area.

D.

Special Provision. The Department shall evaluate credits from institutions in other countries for comparability of degree and coursework through an independent agency authorized to analyze foreign credentials and designated by the Department. The evaluation is conclusive for the Department.

E.

Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts Endorsements.

(1)

An individual who holds a professional license under §A(1)—(4) of this regulation may add an additional Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts endorsement by submitting documentation demonstrating that the individual has:

(a)

Obtained a valid, Department-recognized industry credential in the area to be taught; or

(b)

Meets the requirements for initial licensure under §C of this regulation.

(2)

A local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall request an additional Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts endorsement.

Regulation .03 Renewal and Advancement of a Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts License.Link Copy Citation

A.

General.

(1)

An applicant who holds a license is responsible for initiating the renewal of the license.

(2)

An applicant shall ensure renewal requirements are received before the expiration date of the license to be considered continuous.

(3)

Failure to Meet Requirements. Failure to meet the requirements of this section results in nonrenewal of the license. A local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 may request a Temporary Professional License under Regulation .02A(2) of this chapter for an employee who fails to meet the renewal requirements of the Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional license.

(4)

Advancement to a New License. An applicant may apply to advance to the next level of licensure by meeting the requirements under Regulation .02A of this chapter.

B.

Professional Development Requirements. The Initial Professional, Professional, and Advanced Professional license may be renewed for successive 5-year terms on the successful completion of the requisite number of professional development points (PDPs), as set forth in Regulation .05 of this chapter, based on an individual professional development plan, as set forth in Regulation .04 of this chapter, that is designed to improve teaching and student learning and that is approved, if required, by the educator’s supervisor.

C.

Application Process.

(1)

Renewal. An educator may renew their existing Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional License by submitting:

(a)

A completed application, in the manner required by the Department;

(b)

A statement, signed under the penalty of perjury, that the applicant has completed all requirements for licensure renewal, including the requisite number of Professional Development Points under an Individual Professional Development Plan; and

(c)

The required fee.

(2)

Advancement. An educator may request advancement to a new level of licensure by submitting:

(a)

A completed application, in the manner required by the Department;

(b)

Supporting documentation demonstrating the applicant has met the requirements for the new level of licensure; and

(c)

The required fee.

(3)

All documentation submitted is subject to audit by the Department, and the educator shall provide additional documentation to the Department on request.

(4)

Individuals employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10, may submit documentation directly to the employer.

(5)

Individuals who are not employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall submit documentation directly to the Department.

Regulation .04 Individual Professional Development Plans — Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts.Link Copy Citation

A.

Individual Professional Development Plans.

(1)

An educator shall have an individual professional development plan in place for each of the 5 years of validity for each Initial Professional, Professional, and Advanced Professional license issued to the educator.

(2)

An individual professional development plan shall include a minimum of 90 professional development points, as set forth in Regulation .05 of this chapter, to renew the educator’s license.

(3)

Educators who are not employed with a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 are responsible for developing their own individual professional development plan.

B.

Approval of an Individual Professional Development Plan.

(1)

Educators working in a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall obtain approval of their proposed individual professional development plan from their supervisors.

(2)

The educator’s supervisor, or an appropriate designee, shall approve proposed individual professional development plans.

(3)

Educators shall obtain initial approval of their individual professional development plan within 6 months of issuance of the license to be renewed.

(4)

Supervisor Review.

(a)

A supervisor shall review the existing individual professional development plan of any educator new to the district or school within 3 months of the educator’s beginning employment in the new position.

(b)

A supervisor may require an educator to amend the plan or may withdraw approval for a plan that had been previously approved, but the Department shall approve any professional development points that were earned consistently with an approved plan in the application for license renewal.

(5)

Signatures.

(a)

Before applying to renew an Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional license, educators shall obtain a signature from a current supervisor.

(b)

A supervisor’s signature shall indicate that the supervisor has reviewed the log of professional development activities maintained by the educator to ensure that the reported activities are consistent with the approved individual professional development plan.

(c)

The educator remains responsible for the final accounting of professional development points applied towards license renewal.

(d)

An educator whose supervisor refuses to sign an individual professional development plan may follow the review procedures set forth in §B(7) of this regulation.

(6)

Approval of an individual professional development plan may not be unreasonably withheld by a supervisor.

(7)

If a plan is rejected by a supervisor, an educator may seek review of the denial from:

(a)

The superintendent of schools, or designee, if employed with a local school system;

(b)

The Chief Officer of the Legal Authority, or designee, if employed with a nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10; or

(c)

The Executive Director, or comparable position, if employed with a State-operated school.

Regulation .05 Professional Development Points- Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts.Link Copy Citation

A.

Professional Development Point (PDP). The Department shall measure professional development activities as follows:

(1)

1 clock hour is equivalent to one PDP.

(2)

1 semester hour is equivalent to 15 PDPs.

(3)

One Department-approved continuing professional development credit is equivalent to 15 PDPs.

(4)

One continuing education unit is equivalent to ten PDPs.

B.

Educators applying to renew an Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional License shall complete a minimum of 90 PDPs that shall include:

(1)

Content or pedagogy related to an area on the educator’s license;

(2)

English as a Second Language, Sheltered English, or Bilingual Education;

(3)

Strategies for teaching students with disabilities, or differentiated instruction for students with diverse learning needs; and

(4)

Culturally Responsive Teaching or diverse student identities in education.

C.

Additional Requirements for Specific Licensure Areas.

(1)

Blind/Visually Impaired. Teachers who hold a license in the area of the Blind/Visually Impaired shall present a minimum of 15 PDPs in braille maintenance.

(2)

School Counselor. An educator who is licensed as a School Counselor shall present 1 semester hour of coursework from an institution of higher education, one Department-approved continuing professional development credit; or an equivalent number of continuing education units that address the following:

(a)

Depression;

(b)

Trauma;

(c)

Violence;

(d)

Youth suicide;

(e)

Substance abuse; and

(f)

The identification of professional resources and best practices for distributing resources to parents or guardians to help students in crisis.

(3)

Administrator. If an educator is employed in a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 and assigned in an administrator or supervisor position, the educator shall submit PDPs which include:

(a)

Strategies for increasing teacher retention; and

(b)

Strategies for developing and facilitating teacher leadership.

D.

Professional development points may be accrued by the completion of one of more of the following:

(1)

College credit earned or taught at an accredited institution of higher education.

(2)

Continuing professional development (CPD) credits, earned or taught, approved by the Department.

(3)

Continuing education units (CEUs) from an accredited International Association for Continuing Education and Training provider or approved by another Maryland State agency for purposes of licensure.

(4)

Professional conference. A professional conference is a workshop, institute, or seminar of 4 or more hours that contributes to ongoing, sustained, and high-quality professional development.

(5)

Curriculum Development.

(a)

Curriculum development is a group activity in which the license holder contributes to the improvement of the curriculum of a school, a school division, or an educational institution.

(b)

This includes the alignment of curriculum frameworks, instructional materials, and assessments to provide a system with clear expectations of what is to be taught and learned.

(c)

For each curriculum developed, the Department shall award the educator up to 30 PDPs.

(6)

Publication of a Book or Article.

(a)

The license holder shall ensure that the book or article contributes to the education profession or to the body of knowledge of the license holder’s teaching area or instructional position.

(b)

The educator shall ensure that an article is published in a recognized professional journal.

(c)

The educator shall ensure that books are published for purchase.

(d)

For each book published, the Department shall award the educator up to 75 PDPs. For each article published, the Department shall award the educator up to 10 PDPs.

(7)

Mentorship.

(a)

Mentoring is the process by which an experienced professional who has received mentorship training helps one or more individuals to improve their performance.

(b)

Assistance may involve role modeling, direct instruction, demonstration, observation with feedback, developing of plans, and consultation to promote instructional excellence and increased student achievement.

(c)

Mentoring may include the supervision of a field experience of a pre-service student teacher or an intern in an approved teacher preparation program, as well as mentoring as part of the induction process for a beginning teacher.

(8)

Micro-Credentials.

(a)

Micro-credentials are a digital form of certification indicating demonstrated competency/mastery in a specific skill or set of skills.

(b)

Educators identify a competency they want to develop, submit evidence that they have mastered the competency, and receive a digital badge once the evidence is approved.

(c)

Micro-credentials can be earned by non-profit and for profit entities approved by the local school system, State-operated school, nonpublic school, or the Department.

(d)

For each micro-credential earned, the Department shall award the educator up to 10 PDPs.

(9)

Professional Development Activity.

(a)

The Department shall accept professional development activities approved by the Department, Maryland local school system, State Agency, a Maryland approved nonpublic school, or another state department of education.

(b)

The license holder shall ensure that each activity is a minimum of 1 contact hour.

(10)

Occupational Experience.

(a)

Occupational experience related to the career area being taught may be used to earn PDPs.

(b)

For every 10 hours worked, the educator may earn 1 PDP.

(c)

Occupational experience is limited to 15 PDPs.

E.

An educator who earns a National Board Certificate from the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards may present that certificate when subsequently renewing a Maryland Educator License as a substitute for §B of this regulation.

Regulation .01 Purpose.Link Copy Citation

Specialists employed in an early childhood, elementary, pre-kindergarten—12 or secondary school program shall hold an appropriate license under COMAR 13A.12.04 or a license in certain areas as otherwise provided in State law.

Regulation .02 Licenses for Specialists.Link Copy Citation

A.

Types of Specialist Licenses.

(1)

Temporary Professional.

(a)

The Temporary Professional License is valid for 2 years and may not be renewed.

(b)

A local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 may request a Temporary Professional License for an applicant who does not meet the renewal requirements of a professional license.

(c)

If an applicant under Regulation .11 of this chapter has not completed three semester hours or obtained three State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework, but otherwise meets the requirements for initial licensure, a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 may request a Temporary Professional License for the applicant.

(2)

Initial Professional.

(a)

The Initial Professional License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .13 of this chapter.

(b)

An applicant who has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under Regulations .03—.12 of this chapter is eligible for an Initial Professional License.

(3)

Professional.

(a)

The Professional License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .13 of this chapter.

(b)

An applicant who has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under Regulations .03—.12 of this chapter is eligible for a Professional License if the applicant submits documentation:

(i)

Verifying 3 years of effective performance; and

(ii)

Demonstrating completion of a Maryland induction program, if applicable.

(4)

Advanced Professional.

(a)

The Advanced Professional License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .13 of this chapter.

(b)

An applicant who has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under this chapter is eligible for an Advanced Professional License if the applicant meets the requirements for the Professional License under §A(3) of this regulation and submits documentation demonstrating that the applicant has:

(i)

A master’s degree or higher;

(ii)

At least 30 semester hours of post baccalaureate credit; or

(iii)

A National Board Certificate issued by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

B.

The Department shall evaluate credits from institutions in other countries for comparability of degree and coursework by an independent agency authorized to analyze foreign credentials and designated by the Department. The evaluation is conclusive for the Department.

Regulation .03 School Counselor.Link Copy Citation

The requirements for licensure as school counselor are that the applicant shall:

A.

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework; and

B.

Complete one of the following pathways:

(1)

Maryland Approved Program. Candidates who possess a master’s degree and complete a program approved under COMAR 13A.07.06 leading to licensure as a school counselor.

(2)

National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC). Candidates who possess a master’s degree in school counseling or school guidance and counseling, a valid National Board of Certified Counselors certificate, and 2 years of effective performance as a teacher or school counselor in a school setting.

(3)

National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS). Candidates who possess a master’s degree in school counseling or school guidance and counseling and present a valid National Board Certificate in the area of School Counseling.

(4)

Out-of-State Program. Candidates who possess a master’s degree in school counseling or school guidance and counseling from an out-of-State approved program and 2 years of effective performance as a teacher or school counselor or 500 clock hours in a supervised practicum in school counseling.

(5)

Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). Candidates who possess a master’s degree in school counseling or school guidance and counseling from a program approved by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs.

(6)

Experienced Professional. Candidates who possess a master’s degree and a valid, professional certificate from another state and verification of at least 27 months of effective performance as a school counselor.

Regulation .04 Library Media Specialist.Link Copy Citation

A.

Definitions.

(1)

In this regulation, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

(2)

Terms Defined.

(a)

“Library media” means a variety of communication and information formats and their accompanying technologies appropriate to learning and instruction.

(b)

“Library media specialist” means an individual who has developed knowledge, understanding of, and competency in the broad range of library media services, with particular emphasis on those competencies related to the development and administration of a comprehensive school library media program.

B.

Pathways to Licensure. To qualify for a Professional Specialist License, a candidate shall complete one of the following pathways:

(1)

Maryland Approved Program. Candidates who possess a master’s degree and complete a program approved under COMAR 13A.07.06 leading to licensure as a library media specialist.

(2)

Out-of-State Preparation Program. Candidates who possess a master’s degree and complete an approved program leading to licensure as a library media specialist in another state.

(3)

Experienced Professional. Candidates who possess a master’s degree, hold a valid professional library media license from another state or country, and submit verification of 3 years of full-time effective experience as a library media specialist.

(4)

National Board Certification. Candidates who possess a master’s degree and a National Board Certificate in the area of Library Media.

(5)

Master’s Equivalent.

(a)

The applicant shall have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an institution of higher education, to include a program of 36 semester hours of post-baccalaureate credit with 15 semester hours completed at one institution and a minimum of 24 semester hours of graduate credit in the content coursework listed in §B(5)(b) of this regulation.

(b)

Content coursework shall include:

(i)

Administration of library media programs, including an understanding of State and national library media standards and technology standards;

(ii)

Materials for children in all formats, including concepts related to the teaching and learning of reading;

(iii)

Materials for young adults in all formats, including concepts related to the teaching and learning of reading;

(iv)

Selection, evaluation, and use of materials in all formats to meet student curriculum and instructional needs;

(v)

Access and delivery of information, including reference and bibliographic systems in all formats;

(vi)

Organization of knowledge, including cataloging and classification, and information retrieval in all formats;

(vii)

Principles of communication, including dissemination and use of information in all formats; and

(viii)

The design, creation, and implementation of library media in all formats for instructional use.

(c)

Professional education coursework shall include:

(i)

History and philosophy of education;

(ii)

Student developmental levels, learning theory, and strategies for identifying student information and learning needs;

(iii)

Theory, principles, and methods of instructional design and delivery; and

(iv)

Inclusion of special needs student populations.

(d)

The professional education coursework listed in §B(5)(b) of this regulation may be met by course credits earned in addition to, or as part of, the undergraduate degree program. The total number of post-baccalaureate credits needed for licensure may not be reduced for course requirements that are met in the applicant’s bachelor’s degree program. Additional post-baccalaureate or graduate courses may be substituted.

(e)

An applicant shall satisfactorily complete a school library media practicum, 1 year of full-time teaching experience, or 1 year of full-time school library media-related experience.

C.

Special education coursework. In addition to meeting one of the pathways in §B of this regulation, the applicant must present 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework.

Regulation .05 Pupil Personnel Worker.Link Copy Citation

The requirements for licensure as a pupil personnel worker are that the applicant shall have:

A.

A master’s degree from an institution of higher education in pupil personnel or a related field, such as:

(1)

Counseling or guidance services, or both;

(2)

Early childhood, elementary, or secondary education;

(3)

Human growth and development;

(4)

Sociology, social work, or psychology;

(5)

Special education; or

(6)

Administration and supervision;

B.

In addition to or as part of §A of this regulation, 21 semester hours of graduate credit or State-approved CPDs, to include school law and at least 6 of the following seven areas:

(1)

Counseling methods;

(2)

Early childhood or adolescent psychology, or both;

(3)

Multicultural issues;

(4)

Family systems/dynamics;

(5)

Delivery of pupil personnel services and programs;

(6)

Abnormal psychology or juvenile delinquency, or both; or

(7)

Educational assessment interpretation;

C.

3 years of effective teaching experience, or, at the recommendation of a local superintendent of schools, related experience may be substituted for teaching experience; and

D.

3 semester hours of credit or State-approved CPDs in inclusion of special needs student populations.

Regulation .06 Reading Specialist.Link Copy Citation

The requirements for licensure as a reading specialist are that the applicant shall:

A.

Meet the requirements for licensure in early childhood education, elementary education, special education, or a secondary education area;

B.

Submit verification of 3 years of effective teaching or clinical experience;

C.

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework; and

D.

Complete the requirements of one of the following pathways:

(1)

Maryland Approved Program. Candidates who possess a master’s degree and complete a program approved under COMAR 13A.07.06 leading to licensure as a reading specialist;

(2)

Out-of-State Preparation Program. Candidates who possess a master’s degree and complete an approved program leading to licensure as a reading specialist in another state; or

(3)

Professional Coursework. Candidates who possess a master’s degree or equivalent of 33 post-baccalaureate credits from an institution of higher education in reading and related areas to include:

(a)

15 semester hours of reading coursework with at least one course in each of the following areas:

(i)

Foundation or survey course;

(ii)

Diagnosis and correction of reading difficulties;

(iii)

Clinical or laboratory practicum;

(iv)

Assessment or evaluation, or both; and

(v)

Methods in the teaching of reading to English language learners; and

(b)

Additional coursework selected from at least four of the following areas:

(i)

Emergent literacy;

(ii)

Literacy Leadership;

(iii)

Content area literacy;

(iv)

Writing;

(v)

Effective use of technology in the literacy classroom;

(vi)

Early Childhood, Elementary, or Adolescent literacy;

(vii)

Literacy research; and

(viii)

Linguistics.

E.

Special Provision.

(1)

An applicant who satisfies the requirements of §A of this regulation by presenting a teaching license in a secondary education area shall demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and practices of scientific reading instruction, to include phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

(2)

Demonstration of proficiency may be satisfied by submitting one of the following:

(a)

A passing score on a reading instruction test approved by the State Board of Education;

(b)

Completion of coursework or professional learning approved by the Department; or

(c)

Submission of attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor; or

(d)

Completion of training provided by the Department in the science of reading.

Regulation .07 Reading Teacher.Link Copy Citation

A.

Requirements for Licensure. The requirements for licensure as a reading teacher are that the applicant shall:

(1)

Meet the requirements for licensure in early childhood education, elementary education, special education, or a secondary education area;

(2)

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework;

(3)

Have 12 semester hours of post-baccalaureate graduate credit from an institution of higher education in reading, including a foundation or survey course and a course in diagnosis and correction of reading difficulties; and

(4)

Have 2 years of successful teaching experience.

B.

Special Provision.

(1)

An applicant who satisfies the requirements of §A(1) of this regulation by presenting a teaching license in a secondary education area shall demonstrate proficiency in the knowledge and practices of scientific reading instruction, to include phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

(2)

Demonstration of proficiency may be satisfied by submitting one of the following:

(a)

A passing score on a reading instruction test approved by the State Board of Education;

(b)

Completion of coursework or professional learning approved by the Department; or

(c)

Submission of attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor; or

(d)

Completion of training provided by the Department in the science of reading.

Regulation .08 Psychometrist.Link Copy Citation

A.

Definition.

(1)

In this chapter, the following term has the meaning indicated.

(2)

Term Defined. “Psychometrist” means an individual who works directly under the professional supervision of a school psychologist or supervisor of school psychological services. The purpose of this position is limited to providing assistance to the school psychologist by administering psychological tests and other related psychometric tasks.

B.

Education. An applicant for licensure as a psychometrist shall have the following:

(1)

A master’s degree from an institution of higher education in psychology or education.

(2)

45 semester hours of graduate and undergraduate coursework from an institution of higher education that shall include the following areas:

(a)

Tests and measurements;

(b)

Individual intelligence testing of children;

(c)

Individual educational assessment of children, reading assessment, curriculum-based assessment;

(d)

Assessment of personality (including social, emotional, and behavioral assessment of children);

(e)

Practicum in psychological testing of children;

(f)

Developmental psychology child and adolescent psychology;

(g)

Statistics/research methods, research design;

(h)

Personality theory;

(i)

Learning process/theory;

(j)

Abnormal psychology, psychopathology;

(k)

Educational psychology;

(l)

Curriculum and instruction;

(m)

Intervention techniques, consultation, counseling;

(n)

Social bases of behavior, social psychology, multicultural psychology; and

(o)

Physiological and neurological bases of behavior.

(3)

Coursework required in §B(2)(a), (h)—(l), and (n) of this regulation may be taken at the undergraduate level.

(4)

3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework.

C.

Experience. An applicant demonstrating compliance with the experience requirements for licensure as a psychometrist shall comply with the following:

(1)

Option I.

(a)

500 clock hours of field experience in school psychology which is approved by and under the direction of an institution of higher education that has an approved program in psychology.

(b)

The applicant shall ensure that field experience includes experience in regular and special education programs and emphasizes assessment.

(c)

The applicant shall ensure that field supervision occurs under an individual licensed as a school psychologist.

(2)

Option II.

(a)

2 years of successful experience of at least 600 clock hours per year providing psychometric services to children in an educational setting under the supervision of an individual licensed as a school psychologist.

(b)

The supervision requirement may be waived if an applicant has previously provided these services as a licensed psychologist.

Regulation .09 School Psychologist.Link Copy Citation

A.

Definition. “School psychologist” means an individual who is licensed to provide psychological services to children in a public or State-approved nonpublic school setting and supervises interns and psychometrists.

B.

Education. An applicant for licensure as a school psychologist shall:

(1)

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework; and

(2)

Complete one of the following pathways to licensure:

(a)

Option I:

(i)

Submit a master’s degree or higher in school psychology from a Maryland-approved program; and

(ii)

Qualifying scores on the Maryland-approved test for school psychologist.

(b)

Option II:

(i)

Submit a master’s degree or higher and complete an out-of-State-approved program in school psychology, culminating a minimum of a 1,200-hour internship in school psychology; and

(ii)

Submit qualifying scores on the Maryland-approved test for school psychologist.

(c)

Option III: Submit a valid Nationally Certified School Psychologist certificate issued by the National School Psychology Certification Board.

(d)

Option IV:

(i)

Submit a master’s degree or higher from an institution of higher education; and

(ii)

Submit a valid professional license in school psychology from another state and verification of at least 27 months of effective performance as a school psychologist during the past 7 years, on the basis of which application is being made for a comparable Maryland license.

Regulation .10 Therapists (Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Speech-Language Pathologists, or Audiologists).Link Copy Citation

A.

The Department shall consider an occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech-language pathologist, or audiologist to be professionally licensed if the individual holds:

(1)

A valid license issued by the State Board of Occupational Therapy Practice, the State Board of Physical Therapy Examiners, or the State Board of Audiologists, Hearing Aid Dispensers, and Speech-Language Pathologists, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Health Occupations Article, Annotated Code of Maryland; or

(2)

A valid compact privilege to practice in Maryland under an applicable interstate licensure compact to which the State is a party.

B.

This individual does not require an additional educator license.

Regulation .11 School Social Worker.Link Copy Citation

To obtain educator licensure as a school social worker, the applicant shall:

A.

Be licensed by the Maryland State Board of Social Work Examiners as a:

(1)

Masters Social Worker;

(2)

Certified Social Worker; or

(3)

Certified Social Worker — Clinical.

B.

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework

Regulation .12 Gifted and Talented Education Specialist.Link Copy Citation

To be licensed as a Gifted and Talented Education Specialist, an applicant shall:

A.

Complete one of the following:

(1)

A Department-approved master’s program that leads to licensure in Gifted and Talented Education;

(2)

An out-of-State approved master’s program that leads to Gifted and Talented licensure; or

(3)

Approved coursework.

(a)

Complete 15 semester hours of graduate coursework in Gifted and Talented Education from an institution of higher education, which includes a balance of content in the following competencies:

(i)

Understanding the foundations of gifted education, including historical perspectives, key philosophies and theories, social, cultural, and economic influences, key issues, and trends;

(ii)

Understanding the unique cognitive and affective characteristics of gifted and talented students, including the learning differences of gifted and talented students with disabilities and those from diverse backgrounds;

(iii)

Understanding processes and procedures for the identification of gifted and talented students, including the use of equitable approaches for identifying gifted and talented students from diverse backgrounds and those with disabilities;

(iv)

Understanding evidence-based instructional strategies for differentiating instruction for gifted and talented students, including strategies that enhance acquisition of knowledge and skills in specific domains, critical and creative thinking, problem solving, and metacognition;

(v)

Understanding theories and models for developing and implementing curriculum, instruction, and assessments for gifted and talented students; and

(vi)

Understanding how to create learning environments that foster the social and emotional well-being of gifted and talented students, including the development of self-awareness, coping skills, positive peer relationships, and leadership; and

(b)

Complete at least 3 semester hours in a clinical/laboratory internship;

B.

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework; and

C.

Present verification of 27 months of effective teaching experience or clinical experience

Regulation .13 Renewal and Advancement of a Specialist License.Link Copy Citation

A.

General.

(1)

An applicant who holds a license is responsible for initiating the renewal of the license.

(2)

An applicant shall ensure renewal requirements are received before the expiration date of the license to be considered continuous.

(3)

Failure to Meet Requirements. Failure to meet the requirements of this section results in nonrenewal of the license.

(4)

Advancement to a New License. An applicant may apply to advance to the next level of licensure by meeting the requirements under §.02A of this chapter.

B.

Professional Development Requirements. The Initial Professional, Professional, and Advanced Professional License may be renewed for successive 5-year terms upon the successful completion of the requisite number of professional development points (PDPs) as set forth in Regulation .15 of this chapter based on an individual professional development plan as set forth in Regulation .14 of this chapter that is designed to improve student learning and that is approved, if required, by the educator’s supervisor.

C.

Application Process.

(1)

Renewal. An educator may renew their existing Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional License by submitting:

(a)

A completed application, in the manner required by the Department;

(b)

A statement, signed under the penalty of perjury, that the applicant has completed all requirements for licensure renewal, including the requisite number of Professional Development Points under an Individual Professional Development Plan; and

(c)

The required fee.

(2)

Advancement. An educator may request advancement to a new level of licensure by submitting:

(a)

A completed application, in the manner required by the Department;

(b)

Supporting documentation demonstrating the applicant has met the requirements for the new level of licensure; and

(c)

The required fee.

(3)

All documentation submitted is subject to audit by the Department, and the educator shall provide additional documentation to the Department on request.

(4)

Individuals employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10, may submit documentation directly to the employer.

(5)

Individuals who are not employed by a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall submit documentation directly to the Department.

Regulation .14 Individual Professional Development Plans.Link Copy Citation

A.

Individual Professional Development Plans.

(1)

An educator shall have an individual professional development plan in place for each of the 5 years of validity for each Initial Professional, Professional, and Advanced Professional license issued to the educator.

(2)

An individual professional development plan shall include a minimum of 90 professional development points, as set forth in Regulation .15 of this chapter, to renew the educator’s License.

(3)

Educators who are not employed with a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 are responsible for developing their own individual professional development plan.

B.

Approval of an Individual Professional Development Plan.

(1)

Educators working in a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall obtain approval of their proposed individual professional development plan from their supervisors.

(2)

The educator’s supervisor, or an appropriate designee, shall approve proposed individual professional development plans.

(3)

Educators shall obtain initial approval of their individual professional development plan within 6 months of issuance of the license to be renewed.

(4)

Supervisor Review.

(a)

A supervisor shall review the existing individual professional development plan of any educator new to the district or school within 3 months of the educator’s beginning employment in the new position.

(b)

A supervisor may require an educator to amend the plan or may withdraw approval for a plan that had been previously approved, but the Department shall approve any professional development points that were earned consistently with an approved plan in the application for license renewal.

(5)

Signatures.

(a)

Before applying to renew an Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional license, educators shall obtain a signature from a current supervisor.

(b)

A supervisor’s signature shall indicate that the supervisor has reviewed the log of professional development activities maintained by the educator to ensure that the reported activities are consistent with the approved individual professional development plan.

(c)

The educator remains responsible for the final accounting of professional development points applied towards license renewal.

(d)

An educator whose supervisor refuses to sign an Individual professional development plan may follow the review procedures set forth in §B(7) of this regulation.

(6)

Approval of an individual professional development plan may not be unreasonably withheld by a supervisor.

(7)

If a plan is rejected by a supervisor, an educator may seek review of the denial from:

(a)

The superintendent of schools, or designee, if employed with a local school system;

(b)

The Chief Officer of the Legal Authority, or designee, if employed with a nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10; or

(c)

The Executive Director, or comparable position, if employed with a State-operated school.

Regulation .15 Professional Development Points.Link Copy Citation

A.

Professional Development Point (PDP).

(1)

1 clock hour is equivalent to one PDP.

(2)

1 semester hour is equivalent to 15 PDPs.

(3)

One Department-approved continuing professional development credit is equivalent to 15 PDPs.

(4)

One continuing education unit is equivalent to ten PDPs.

B.

Educators applying to renew an Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional License shall complete a minimum of 90 PDPs that shall include:

(1)

Content or pedagogy related to an area on the educator’s license;

(2)

English as a Second Language, Sheltered English, or Bilingual Education;

(3)

Strategies for teaching students with disabilities, or differentiated instruction for students with diverse learning needs; and

(4)

Culturally Responsive Teaching or diverse student identities in education.

C.

Additional Requirements for Specific Licensure Areas.

(1)

Blind/Visually Impaired. Teachers who hold a license in the area of the Blind/Visually Impaired shall present a minimum of 15 PDPs in braille maintenance.

(2)

School Counselor. An educator who is licensed as a School Counselor shall present 1 semester hour of coursework from an Institution of Higher Education, one Department-approved continuing professional development credit; or an equivalent number of continuing education units that address the following:

(a)

Depression;

(b)

Trauma;

(c)

Violence;

(d)

Youth suicide;

(e)

Substance abuse; and

(f)

The identification of professional resources and best practices for distributing resources to parents or guardians to help students in crisis.

(3)

Administrator. If an educator is employed in a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 and assigned in an administrator or supervisor position, the educator shall submit PDPs which include:

(a)

Strategies for increasing teacher retention; and

(b)

Strategies for developing and facilitating teacher leadership.

D.

Professional development points may be accrued by the completion of one of more of the following:

(1)

College credit earned or taught at an accredited institution of higher education.

(2)

Continuing professional development (CPD) credits, earned or taught, approved by the Department.

(3)

Continuing education units (CEUs) from an accredited International Association for Continuing Education and Training provider or approved by another Maryland State agency for purposes of licensure.

(4)

Professional conference. A professional conference is a workshop, institute, or seminar of 4 or more hours that contributes to ongoing, sustained, and high-quality professional development.

(5)

Curriculum Development.

(a)

Curriculum development is a group activity in which the license holder contributes to the improvement of the curriculum of a school, a school division, or an educational institution.

(b)

This includes the alignment of curriculum frameworks, instructional materials, and assessments to provide a system with clear expectations of what is to be taught and learned.

(c)

For each curriculum developed, the Department shall award the educator up to 30 PDPs.

(6)

Publication of a Book or Article.

(a)

The license holder shall ensure that the book or article contributes to the education profession or to the body of knowledge of the license holder’s teaching area or instructional position.

(b)

The educator shall ensure that an article is published in a recognized professional journal.

(c)

The educator shall ensure that books are published for purchase.

(d)

For each book published, the Department shall award the educator up to 75 PDPs. For each article published, the Department shall award the educator up to 10 PDPs.

(7)

Mentorship.

(a)

Mentoring is the process by which an experienced professional who has received mentorship training helps one or more individuals to improve their performance.

(b)

Assistance may involve role modeling, direct instruction, demonstration, observation with feedback, developing of plans, and consultation to promote instructional excellence and increased student achievement.

(c)

Mentoring may include the supervision of a field experience of a pre-service student teacher or an intern in an approved teacher preparation program, as well as mentoring as part of the induction process for a beginning teacher.

(8)

Micro-Credentials.

(a)

Micro-credentials are a digital form of certification indicating demonstrated competency/mastery in a specific skill or set of skills.

(b)

Educators identify a competency they want to develop, submit evidence that they have mastered the competency, and receive a digital badge once the evidence is approved.

(c)

Micro-credentials can be earned by non-profit and for-profit entities approved by the local school system, State-operated school, nonpublic school, or the Department.

(d)

For each micro-credential earned, the Department shall award the educator up to 10 PDPs.

(9)

Professional Development Activity.

(a)

The Department shall accept professional development activities approved by the Department, Maryland local school system, State Agency, a Maryland approved nonpublic school, or another state department of education.

(b)

The license holder shall ensure that each activity is a minimum of 1 contact hour.

E.

An educator who earns a National Board Certificate from the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards may present that certificate when subsequently renewing a Maryland Educator License as a substitute for §B of this regulation.

Regulation .01 Purpose.Link Copy Citation

Administrators and supervisors who have direct contact with students, who have responsibility for curriculum development, or who have responsibility for supervision of instruction shall meet the requirements for a license under COMAR 13A.12.05, as applicable.

Regulation .02 Licenses for Administrators and Supervisors.Link Copy Citation

A.

Types of Administrator/Supervisor Licenses.

(1)

Initial Professional.

(a)

The Initial Professional License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .15 of this chapter.

(b)

An applicant who has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under Regulations .03—.12 of this chapter is eligible for an Initial Professional License.

(2)

Professional.

(a)

The Professional License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .15 of this chapter.

(b)

An applicant who has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under Regulations .03—.12 of this chapter is eligible for a Professional License if the applicant submits documentation:

(i)

Verifying 3 years of effective performance; and

(ii)

Demonstrating completion of a Maryland induction program, if applicable.

(3)

Advanced Professional.

(a)

The Advanced Professional License is valid for 5 years and may be renewed should the license holder meet the renewal requirements under Regulation .13 of this chapter.

(b)

An applicant who has met the requirements of one of the pathways to licensure under this chapter is eligible for an Advanced Professional License if the applicant meets the requirements for the Professional License under §A(2) of this regulation and submits documentation that the applicant has:

(i)

A master’s degree or higher;

(ii)

At least 30 semester hours of post baccalaureate credit; or

(iii)

A National Board Certificate issued by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

B.

The Department shall evaluate credits from institutions in other countries for comparability of degree and coursework by an independent agency authorized to analyze foreign credentials and designated by the Department. The evaluation is conclusive for the Department.

Regulation .03 Supportive Services Personnel.Link Copy Citation

A.

Purpose. The State Superintendent of Schools may license as Supportive Services Personnel a qualified employee of a local school system who is assigned to administrative or supervisory responsibilities not otherwise covered in these regulations, and who has responsibilities comparable to those assigned to individuals who hold specific supervisory licenses.

B.

Education. An applicant for licensure as Supportive Services Personnel shall have a bachelor’s degree or higher appropriate to the area of responsibility from an institution of higher education.

C.

This license is issued at the request of a local school, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10.

Regulation .04 Superintendents.Link Copy Citation

A.

Superintendent I.

(1)

This license qualifies an individual to be assigned as a county deputy superintendent, assistant superintendent or associate superintendent through either Traditional or Reciprocal Licensure.

(2)

An applicant for Traditional Licensure shall meet the education and experience requirements.

(3)

Education Requirements for Traditional Licensure. The applicant shall have:

(a)

A master’s degree from an institution of higher education;

(b)

Completed one of the following:

(i)

A Department-approved program which leads to licensure as a superintendent;

(ii)

A program offered by an institution of higher education leading to licensure as a superintendent in the state in which the institution is located; or

(iii)

45 semester hours of graduate coursework, including a minimum of 15 semester hours in education administration taken at an institution of higher education. Graduate coursework earned under §A(3)(a) of this regulation may be applied toward the 45 required semester hours; and

(c)

3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework.

(4)

Experience Requirements for Traditional Licensure. The applicant shall have:

(a)

27 months of effective teaching performance or effective performance as a licensed specialist as defined in COMAR 13A.12.03 in a pre-kindergarten — 12 setting; and

(b)

24 months of effective administrative or supervisory experience in a pre-kindergarten—12 setting.

(5)

Requirements for Reciprocal Licensure. A deputy, associate, or assistant superintendent who enters Maryland from another state may obtain a Superintendent I license if that individual:

(a)

Holds a valid professional state license in a like or comparable area;

(b)

Presents verification of at least 36 months of effective performance as a deputy, associate, or assistant superintendent during the past 7 years; and

(c)

Completes 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework.

B.

Superintendent II.

(1)

This license qualifies an individual to be a county superintendent through either Traditional or Reciprocal Licensure.

(2)

An applicant for Traditional Licensure shall meet the education and experience requirements.

(3)

Education Requirements for Traditional Licensure. The applicant shall have:

(a)

A master’s degree from an institution of higher education;

(b)

Have completed one of the following:

(i)

A Department-approved program which leads to licensure as a superintendent to include coursework covering public school administration, supervision, and methods of teaching;

(ii)

A program offered by an institution of higher education leading to licensure as a superintendent in the state in which the institution is located to include coursework covering public school administration, supervision, and methods of teaching; or

(iii)

60 semester hours of graduate coursework, including a minimum of 24 semester hours in education administration taken at an institution of higher education, to include public school administration, supervision, and methods of teaching. Graduate coursework earned under §B(3)(a) of this regulation may be applied toward the 60 required semester hours; and

(c)

3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework.

(4)

Experience Requirements for Traditional Licensure. The applicant shall have:

(a)

27 months of effective teaching performance or effective performance as a licensed specialist as defined in COMAR 13A.12.03 in a pre-kindergarten—12 setting; and

(b)

24 months of effective administrative or supervisory experience in a pre-kindergarten—12 setting.

(5)

Requirements for Reciprocal Licensure. A superintendent who enters Maryland from another state may obtain a Superintendent II license if that individual:

(a)

Holds a valid professional state license in a like or comparable area;

(b)

Presents verification of at least 36 months of effective performance as a superintendent during the past 7 years;

(c)

Presents verification of 2 years of graduate work at an institution of higher education, to include coursework covering public school administration, supervision, and methods of teaching; and

(d)

Completes 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework.

Regulation .05 Supervisors of Instruction, Assistant Principals, and Principals.Link Copy Citation

A.

Application of Regulation.

(1)

This regulation applies to obtaining licensure as an Administrator.

(2)

If a principal transfers to become a principal in a special education school, the principal shall hold a Supervisor of Special Education license as set forth in Regulation .10 of this chapter.

B.

Administrator Requirements.

(1)

This license qualifies an individual to be assigned as a supervisor of instruction, assistant principal, or principal.

(2)

The applicant shall have:

(a)

A master’s degree, or higher, from an accredited institution of higher education;

(b)

Twenty-seven months of effective teaching performance or effective performance as a specialist as defined in COMAR 13A.12.04;

(c)

Three semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework; and

(3)

The applicant shall meet one of the following pathways:

(a)

A Department-approved program which leads to licensure as a supervisor of instruction, assistant principal, or principal;

(b)

An approved out-of-State program that leads to licensure as a supervisor of instruction, assistant principal, or principal and includes a supervised clinical practicum;

(c)

Eighteen semester hours of graduate coursework taken at an institution of higher education, to include coursework in the following categories:

(i)

Curriculum, instruction, and assessment;

(ii)

Supervision, evaluation, and supporting instructional improvement;

(iii)

Legal issues and ethical decision-making;

(iv)

Program/school administration;

(v)

Culturally responsive leadership and/or equity in leadership; and

(vi)

Supervised clinical practicum that is a minimum of 240 clock hours; or

(d)

Holds a valid professional state license in administration from another state or country and has verification of 5 years of effective performance as an administrator in a PK-12 school setting.

(4)

Applicants who qualify based on §3(b) or (c) of this regulation must present a qualifying score as established by the State Superintendent of Schools on a school leader licensure assessment approved by the State Board of Education.

Regulation .06 Library Media Administrator.Link Copy Citation

A.

Definition.

(1)

In this regulation, the following term has the meaning indicated.

(2)

Term Defined. “Library media administrator” means an individual designated by the local superintendent of schools as having responsibility for the:

(a)

Administration and supervision of the library media program, including the supervision of the library media program in the individual schools; and

(b)

Development of policies, programs, budgets, and procedures for the library media services of the school system and its schools.

B.

Education and Experience. To be licensed as library media administrator, the applicant shall:

(1)

Meet the requirements for licensure as a library media specialist;

(2)

Have a master’s degree from an institution of higher education;

(3)

Have 3 years of effective library media program experience;

(4)

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework; and

(5)

Complete one of the options listed under Regulation .05 of this chapter that would lead to licensure as Administrator I.

C.

Special Provision. An applicant seeking to satisfy the requirements of §B(3) of this regulation may, at the recommendation of the local school superintendent, substitute 2 years of related effective experience for 2 years of library media program experience.

Regulation .07 Supervisor of School Counseling.Link Copy Citation

The requirements for licensure as a supervisor of school counseling are that the applicant shall:

A.

Meet the requirements for licensure as a school counselor;

B.

Have 3 years of effective performance as a school counselor;

C.

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework; and

D.

Have 12 semester hours of graduate credit from an institution of higher education in any of the following areas, with at least 6 semester hours in school supervision or school administration:

(1)

Management;

(2)

School supervision;

(3)

School administration;

(4)

Program development; or

(5)

Program evaluation.

Regulation .08 Supervisor of School Psychological Services.Link Copy Citation

The requirements for licensure as a supervisor of school psychological services are that the applicant shall:

A.

Meet the requirements for licensure as a school psychologist under COMAR 13A.12.04.09;

B.

Have a doctoral degree:

(1)

From a state or accredited school psychology program, a national educator preparation accreditation organization, National Association of School Psychologists, or American Psychological Association accredited school psychology program; or

(2)

In psychology or education or human development;

C.

As part of or in addition to §B of this regulation, have 9 semester hours of graduate credits including 3 semester hours in school law and 6 semester hours in supervision, management, or administration of schools;

D.

Have 3 years of experience as a school psychologist under COMAR 13A.12.04.09; and

E.

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework.

Regulation .09 Supervisor of Pupil Personnel.Link Copy Citation

The requirements for licensure as a supervisor of pupil personnel are that the applicant shall:

A.

Meet the requirements for licensure as a pupil personnel worker;

B.

Have a master’s degree from an institution of higher education;

C.

As part of or in addition to §B of this regulation, have a graduate course in the area of administration and supervision;

D.

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework; and

E.

Have 3 years of successful teaching experience. At the recommendation of the local superintendent of schools, related experience may be substituted for teaching experience.

Regulation .10 Supervisor of Special Education.Link Copy Citation

A.

Principal Public Separate School. The requirements for licensure as a principal in a public separate school are that the applicant shall:

(1)

Meet the requirements for licensure in special education; and

(2)

Meet the requirements for licensure as an Administrator II.

B.

Supervisor of Special Education (Sole Assignment). The requirements for licensure as a supervisor of special education are that the applicant shall:

(1)

Meet the requirements for licensure in special education; and

(2)

Meet the requirements for licensure as an Administrator I.

C.

Special Provision. Supervisors with multiple area assignments shall meet the requirements set forth in Regulation .05 of this chapter.

Regulation .11 Supervisor of Speech Pathologists and Audiologists.Link Copy Citation

The requirements for a license as a supervisor of speech pathology and audiology are that the applicant shall:

A.

Meet the requirements for certification or licensure as otherwise provided in Health Occupations Article, §2-301, Annotated Code of Maryland, as a speech pathologist or audiologist;

B.

Have a master’s degree from an institution with an approved program when graduating with at least one course in administrative and supervisory techniques and one course in the development of school curriculum;

C.

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework; and

D.

Have 4 years full-time paid experience or its equivalent as a speech and hearing clinician, 2 years of which shall have been in a school setting.

Regulation .12 Supervisor of Teachers of Deaf and Hard of Hearing.Link Copy Citation

The requirements for licensure as a supervisor of teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing are that the applicant shall:

A.

Meet the requirements for licensure as a teacher of the deaf and hard of hearing;

B.

Have a master’s degree from an institution of higher education, with at least one course in administrative and supervisory techniques and one course in curriculum development;

C.

Complete 3 semester hours or State-approved CPD credits in special education coursework; and

D.

Have experience that includes:

(1)

3 years of successful teaching experience with the deaf and hard of hearing; or

(2)

4 years paid experience or its equivalent in a school setting with 2 years successful teaching experience with the deaf and hard of hearing.

Regulation .13 Renewal and Advancement of an Administrator/Supervisor License.Link Copy Citation

A.

General.

(1)

An applicant who holds a license is responsible for initiating the renewal of the license.

(2)

An applicant shall ensure renewal requirements are received before the expiration date of the license to be considered continuous.

(3)

Failure to Meet Requirements. Failure to meet the requirements of this section results in nonrenewal of the license.

(4)

Advancement to a New License. An applicant may apply to advance to the next level of licensure by meeting the requirements under §.02A of this chapter.

B.

Professional Development Requirements. The Initial Professional, Professional, and Advanced Professional License may be renewed for successive 5-year terms on the successful completion of the requisite number of professional development points (PDPs) as set forth in Regulation .15 of this chapter based on an individual professional development plan as set forth in Regulation .14 of this chapter that is designed to improve student learning and that is approved, if required, by the educator’s supervisor.

C.

Application Process.

(1)

Renewal. An educator may renew their existing Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional License by submitting:

(a)

A completed application, in the manner required by the Department;

(b)

The required fee; and

(c)

A statement, signed under the penalty of perjury, that the applicant has completed all requirements for licensure renewal, including the requisite number of Professional Development Points under an Individual Professional Development Plan.

(2)

Advancement. An educator may request advancement to a new level of licensure by submitting:

(a)

A completed application, in the manner prescribed by the Department;

(b)

Supporting documentation demonstrating the applicant has met the requirements for the new level of licensure; and

(c)

The required fee.

(3)

All documentation submitted is subject to audit by the Department, and the educator shall provide additional documentation to the Department on request.

Regulation .14 Individual Professional Development Plans.Link Copy Citation

A.

Individual Professional Development Plans.

(1)

An educator shall have an individual professional development plan in place for each of the 5 years of validity for each Initial Professional, Professional, and Advanced Professional license issued to the educator.

(2)

An individual professional development plan shall include a minimum of 90 professional development points, as set forth in Regulation .15 of this chapter, to renew the educator’s license.

(3)

Educators who are not employed with a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 are responsible for developing their own individual professional development plan.

B.

Approval of an Individual Professional Development Plan.

(1)

Educators working in a Maryland local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 shall obtain approval of their proposed individual professional development plan from their supervisors.

(2)

The educator’s supervisor, or an appropriate designee, shall approve proposed individual professional development plans.

(3)

Educators shall obtain initial approval of their individual professional development plan within 6 months of issuance of the license to be renewed.

(4)

Supervisor Review.

(a)

A supervisor shall review the existing individual professional development plan of any educator new to the district or school within 3 months of the educator’s beginning employment in the new position.

(b)

A supervisor may require an educator to amend the plan or may withdraw approval for a plan that had been previously approved, but the Department shall approve any professional development points that were earned consistently with an approved plan in the application for license renewal.

(5)

Signatures.

(a)

Before applying to renew an Initial Professional or Professional license, educators shall obtain a signature from a current supervisor.

(b)

A supervisor’s signature shall indicate that the supervisor has reviewed the log of professional development activities maintained by the educator to ensure that the reported activities are consistent with the approved individual professional development plan.

(c)

The educator remains responsible for the final accounting of professional development points applied towards license renewal.

(d)

An educator whose supervisor refuses to sign an individual professional development plan may follow the review procedures set forth in §B(7) of this regulation.

(6)

Approval of an individual professional development plan may not be unreasonably withheld by a supervisor.

(7)

If a plan is rejected by a supervisor, an educator may seek review of the denial from:

(a)

The superintendent of schools, or designee, if employed with a local school system;

(b)

The Chief Officer of the Legal Authority, or designee, if employed with a nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10; or

(c)

The Executive Director, or comparable position, if employed with a State-operated school.

Regulation .15 Professional Development Points.Link Copy Citation

A.

Professional Development Point (PDP). The Department shall measure professional development activities as follows:

(1)

1 clock hour is equivalent to one PDP.

(2)

1 semester hour is equivalent to 15 PDPs.

(3)

One Department-approved continuing professional development credit is equivalent to 15 PDPs.

(4)

One continuing education unit is equivalent to ten PDPs.

B.

Educators applying to renew an Initial Professional, Professional, or Advanced Professional License shall complete a minimum of 90 PDPs that shall include:

(1)

Content or pedagogy related to an area on the educator’s license;

(2)

English as a Second Language, Sheltered English, or Bilingual Education;

(3)

Strategies for teaching students with disabilities, or differentiated instruction for students with diverse learning needs; and

(4)

Culturally Responsive Teaching or diverse student identities in education.

C.

Additional Requirements for Specific Certification Areas.

(1)

Blind/Visually Impaired. Teachers who hold a license in the area of the Blind/Visually Impaired shall present a minimum of 15 PDPs in braille maintenance.

(2)

School Counselor. An educator who is licensed as a School Counselor shall present 1 semester hour of coursework from an institution of higher education, one Department-approved continuing professional development credit; or an equivalent number of continuing education units that address the following:

(a)

Depression;

(b)

Trauma;

(c)

Violence;

(d)

Youth suicide;

(e)

Substance abuse; and

(f)

The identification of professional resources and best practices for distributing resources to parents or guardians to help students in crisis.

(3)

Administrator. If an educator is employed in a local school system, State-operated school, or nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.10 and assigned in an administrator or supervisor position, the educator shall submit PDPs which include:

(a)

Strategies for increasing teacher retention; and

(b)

Strategies for developing and facilitating teacher leadership.

D.

Professional development points may be accrued by the completion of one of more of the following:

(1)

College credit earned or taught at an accredited institution of higher education.

(2)

Continuing professional development (CPD) credits, earned or taught, approved by the Department.

(3)

Continuing education units (CEUs) from an accredited International Association for Continuing Education and Training provider or approved by another Maryland State agency for purposes of licensure.

(4)

Professional conference. A professional conference is a workshop, institute, or seminar of 4 or more hours that contributes to ongoing, sustained, and high-quality professional development.

(5)

Curriculum Development.

(a)

Curriculum development is a group activity in which the license holder contributes to the improvement of the curriculum of a school, a school division, or an educational institution.

(b)

This includes the alignment of curriculum frameworks, instructional materials, and assessments to provide a system with clear expectations of what is to be taught and learned.

(c)

For each curriculum developed, the Department shall award the educator up to 30 PDPs.

(6)

Publication of a Book or Article.

(a)

The license holder shall ensure that the book or article contributes to the education profession or to the body of knowledge of the license holder’s teaching area or instructional position.

(b)

The educator shall ensure that an article is in a recognized professional journal.

(c)

The educator shall ensure that books are published for purchase.

(d)

For each book published, the Department shall award the educator up to 75 PDPs. For each article published, the Department shall award the educator up to 10 PDPs.

(7)

Mentorship.

(a)

Mentoring is the process by which an experienced professional who has received mentorship training helps one or more individuals to improve their performance.

(b)

Assistance may involve role modeling, direct instruction, demonstration, observation with feedback, developing of plans, and consultation to promote instructional excellence and increased student achievement.

(c)

Mentoring may include the supervision of a field experience of a pre-service student teacher or an intern in an approved teacher preparation program, as well as mentoring as part of the induction process for a beginning teacher.

(8)

Micro-Credentials.

(a)

Micro-credentials are a digital form of certification indicating demonstrated competency/mastery in a specific skill or set of skills.

(b)

Educators identify a competency they want to develop, submit evidence that they have mastered the competency, and receive a digital badge once the evidence is approved.

(c)

Micro-credentials can be earned by non-profit and for-profit entities approved by the local school system, State-operated school, nonpublic school, or the Department.

(d)

For each micro-credential earned, the Department shall award the educator up to 10 PDPs.

(9)

Professional Development Activity.

(a)

The Department shall accept professional development activities approved by the Department, Maryland local school system, State Agency, a Maryland approved nonpublic school, or another state department of education.

(b)

The license holder shall ensure that each activity is a minimum of 1 contact hour.

E.

An educator who earns a National Board Certificate from the National Board of Professional Teaching Standards may present that certificate when subsequently renewing a Maryland Educator License as a substitute for §B of this regulation.

Regulation .01 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

A.

In this chapter, the following terms have the meanings indicated.

B.

Terms Defined.

(1)

“Denial” means that an individual may not be issued a license because the individual has committed one or more grounds that could lead to the suspension or revocation of a license.

(2)

“Grounds” means the basis or cause for denial, suspension, or revocation.

(3)

“Petition” means the written request for denial, suspension, or revocation.

(4)

“Revocation” means that an educator’s license is withdrawn permanently.

(5)

“Substantiated” means the allegation is supported by proof or evidence, including: witness statements, photographs, videos, and investigation reports.

(6)

“Suspension” means that an educator’s license is withdrawn for a specified period of time.

(7)

“Voluntarily surrendered” means a license holder relinquishes the license while under investigation for grounds that could lead to the suspension or revocation of the license, or while a suspension or revocation action is pending against the license holder, and is equivalent to a revocation.

Regulation .02 Grounds for Disciplinary Action or Denial.Link Copy Citation

A.

The State Superintendent of Schools shall suspend, deny, or revoke a license and all specific license areas issued under this subtitle for the grounds set forth in this regulation.

B.

Suspension Only. A license may be suspended by the State Superintendent of Schools under the following conditions:

(1)

Breach of Contract. A license may be suspended for not more than 365 days if the license holder leaves the employment of a local school system after July 15 in the absence of an emergency and without the consent of the local board of education in violation of the provisions of the Regular State Teacher’s Contract set forth in COMAR 13A.07.02.01B. If an emergency arises, the local board may not unreasonably withhold its consent.

(2)

Failure to Pay Child Support.

(a)

The State Superintendent of Schools shall suspend a license on notification by the Department of Human Services, Child Support Enforcement Administration, that the license holder’s failure to pay child support meets the criteria for suspension of a license under Family Law Article, §10-119.3, Annotated Code of Maryland.

(b)

Before suspending the license, the State Superintendent shall send written notice to the license holder of the proposed suspension and the right to contest the identity of the individual whose license will be suspended.

(c)

An individual may appeal the decision to suspend a license based on failure to pay child support in accordance with State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland. At the appeal hearing, the administrative law judge shall limit the issue to whether the Department of Human Services, Child Support Enforcement Administration, has mistaken the identity of the individual whose license was suspended.

(d)

The State Superintendent shall immediately reinstate any license suspended for failure to pay child support if notified by the Department of Human Services, Child Support Enforcement Administration, that the license should be reinstated and the individual otherwise qualifies for the license.

C.

Suspension, Revocation, or Denial. The State Superintendent of Schools shall suspend, deny, or revoke a license if the license holder or applicant:

(1)

Pleads guilty or nolo contendere with respect to, receives probation before judgment with respect to, or is convicted of, a crime involving:

(a)

Contributing to the delinquency of a minor;

(b)

Moral turpitude if the offense bears directly on the individual’s fitness for employment in education;

(c)

Sexual offense in the third or fourth degree; or

(d)

A controlled dangerous substance offense if:

(i)

The offense occurred on school property or during a school event; or

(ii)

The individual has been convicted and the clerk of the court has certified and reported the controlled dangerous substance conviction to the Department consistent with Criminal Law Article, §5–810, Annotated Code of Maryland, based on a finding by the court that a relationship exists between the conviction and the license;

(2)

Willfully and knowingly:

(a)

Makes a material misrepresentation or concealment as part of any licensure request;

(b)

Files a false report or record, or makes any false document, as part of any licensure request;

(c)

Presents a false license or misrepresents one’s licensure status to the Department or an employer; or

(d)

Commits a violation of the test security and data reporting policy and procedures set forth in COMAR 13A.03.04;

(3)

Fraudulently or deceptively obtains a license;

(4)

Knowingly fails to report suspected child abuse in violation of Family Law Article, §5-701, Annotated Code of Maryland;

(5)

Is dismissed after an allegation of misconduct involving a student in any school system or any minor is substantiated;

(6)

Resigns after notice of allegation of misconduct involving a student in any school system or any minor;

(7)

Is dismissed after notice of allegation of misconduct involving any grounds for denial, suspension or revocation of a license provided in this regulation is substantiated;

(8)

Resigns after notice of allegation of misconduct involving any grounds for denial, suspension or revocation of a license provided in this regulation; or

(9)

Has had a license suspended, revoked, denied, or voluntarily surrendered in another state for a cause which would be grounds for suspension or revocation under this regulation.

D.

Revocation or Denial. The State Superintendent of School shall revoke or deny a license if the license holder or applicant:

(1)

Pleads guilty or nolo contendere with respect to, receives probation before judgment with respect to, or is convicted of, a crime involving:

(a)

Child abuse or neglect as defined in Criminal Law Article, §§3-601—3-603, Annotated Code of Maryland, or a comparable crime in another state;

(b)

Possession, distribution, receipt, or production of child pornography;

(c)

Sexual solicitation of a minor; or

(d)

A crime of violence as defined in Criminal Law Article, §14-101, Annotated Code of Maryland, or a comparable crime in another state;

(2)

Is dismissed after an allegation of sexual child abuse is substantiated; or

(3)

Resigns after notice of allegations of sexual child abuse.

Regulation .03 Petition for Disciplinary Action or Denial.Link Copy Citation

A.

Except as provided in Regulation .02B(2) of this chapter, the following individuals shall file a petition notifying the State Superintendent of Schools in writing of grounds against a license holder or applicant under Regulation .02 of this chapter:

(1)

The local superintendent of schools or a state agency employer if the:

(a)

Individual is currently employed or was employed by the local school system or state agency employer when the conduct occurred; or

(b)

Conduct is reported to the local school system in a criminal background investigation required under Family Law Article, §§5-550—5-559, Annotated Code of Maryland;

(2)

The administrator of a nonpublic school if the:

(a)

Individual is currently employed or was employed by the nonpublic school when the conduct occurred; or

(b)

Conduct is reported to the nonpublic school in a criminal background investigation required under Family Law Article, §§5-550—5-559, Annotated Code of Maryland; or

(3)

The Assistant State Superintendent of Educator Effectiveness, or the superintendent’s designee.

B.

The petition shall include all of the following:

(1)

Name and current or last known address, e-mail, and phone number of the individual against whom the petition is being filed;

(2)

Type of license or licenses held by the individual against whom the petition is being filed;

(3)

Specific grounds as set forth in Regulation .02 of this chapter and any evidence, documentation, or other information supporting the grounds for denial, suspension, or revocation;

(4)

Confirmation that the employee has foregone an appeal or exhausted appeal rights if any employment-related discipline was issued; and

(5)

A recommendation on the type of disciplinary action that should be issued, including the following considerations:

(a)

The parties may agree to a joint recommendation to the State Superintendent of Schools on the resolution of the case;

(b)

The joint recommendation is not binding; and

(c)

The State Superintendent of Schools may accept or reject the recommendation, as follows:

(i)

Where the State Superintendent of Schools rejects the recommendation of the petitioner under §A of this regulation, the State Superintendent shall recommend the appropriate disciplinary action; and

(ii)

The petitioner under §A of this regulation shall adopt the State Superintendent’s recommendation in all proceedings related to the licensing action.

C.

The State Superintendent of Schools shall deny, suspend, or revoke a license upon receipt of a proper petition by a local superintendent of schools, an administrator of a nonpublic school, or the Assistant Superintendent of Educator Licensure and Program Approval identifying the grounds against the license holder.

D.

Before denying, suspending or revoking a license, the State Superintendent of Schools shall:

(1)

Send the applicant or license holder written notice of the petition; and

(2)

Advise the applicant or license holder of the right to request a hearing within 30 calendar days of the date of the written notice.

E.

The State Superintendent of Schools shall e-mail and mail one copy of the written notice and the procedures applicable to the denial, suspension, or revocation of a license by certified mail to the current or last known address of the license holder.

F.

The license holder against whom the petition has been filed may request a hearing in writing within 30 calendar days of the date of the written notice specified in §D of this regulation.

G.

If the license holder does not request a hearing in writing on the petition within the 30-day period set forth in §D(2) of this regulation, the State Superintendent of Schools shall deny, suspend or revoke the license.

H.

Voluntary Surrender.

(1)

An educator who is under investigation for, or facing a petition identifying, grounds for disciplinary action or denial as listed in Regulations .02C and D of this chapter may voluntarily surrender his or her license.

(2)

The State Superintendent of Schools shall treat a license that is voluntarily surrendered as a revocation, and it may not be reinstated except as described in Regulation .09 of this chapter.

I.

Placing an Alert on an Educator’s Record.

(1)

The Department may place an alert on a licensure record on the request of a local school system, nonpublic school, state agency, or on its own accord, if an educator:

(a)

Has had action taken on a license by another state; or

(b)

Is facing the suspension or revocation of a license after being informed of charges by the State Superintendent of Schools.

(2)

An alert does not affect the validity of an educator’s license.

(3)

The local school system, nonpublic school, or state agency shall immediately inform the Department if grounds no longer exist to suspend, deny, or revoke an educator’s license.

(4)

The Department shall immediately remove the alert from an educator’s record if it becomes aware that grounds no longer exist to deny, suspend or revoke an educator’s license.

J.

Action on an Expired License. The Department may take action against an educator’s license even if the license has expired as long as the basis for the action occurred while the license was active.

K.

Denial.

(1)

The Department shall deny a license, permanently or for a fixed period of time, to an individual who does not currently hold a license and has committed grounds listed under Regulation .02C of this chapter.

(2)

The Department shall deny a license permanently to an individual who does not currently hold a license and has committed grounds listed under Regulation .02D of this chapter.

(3)

An individual who has been denied a license may appeal the decision through the process outlined in Regulations .03—.07 of this chapter.

(4)

An individual under investigation for grounds under Regulation .02 of this chapter shall remain ineligible for a license pending the result of the investigation.

(5)

Denial Because of a Failure to Pay Child Support.

(a)

An individual whose failure to pay child support meets the criteria for denial of a professional license under Family Law Article, §10-119.3, Annotated Code of Maryland, following written notification to the State Superintendent of Schools by the Department of Human Services, Child Support Enforcement Administration, is ineligible for a license.

(b)

Before denial of a license, the State Superintendent shall send written notice to the individual, including the right to contest the identity of the individual whose license the Superintendent seeks to deny.

(c)

An individual may appeal the decision to deny a license based on failure to pay child support in accordance with State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland. At the appeal hearing, the issue is limited to whether the Department of Human Services, Child Support Enforcement Administration, has mistaken the identity of the individual whose license was denied.

(d)

The State Superintendent shall immediately withdraw the denial of an application for a license if notified by the Department of Human Services, Child Support Enforcement Administration, that the individual is eligible for a professional license and the individual otherwise qualifies for a license.

Regulation .04 Hearing Procedures.Link Copy Citation

A.

If the license holder requests a hearing in writing within the 30-day period, the State Superintendent of Schools shall promptly refer the case to the Office of Administrative Hearings.

B.

If the written petition was filed against the license holder by the local superintendent of schools or an administrator of a nonpublic school under Regulation .03 of this chapter, a representative from the local school system or nonpublic school shall present the case before the Office of Administrative Hearings.

C.

Hearing procedures are in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, State Government Article, §10-201 et seq., Annotated Code of Maryland, and with COMAR 28.02.

D.

The administrative law judge shall determine if the grounds against the license holder are supported by a preponderance of the evidence.

E.

The administrative law judge shall submit in writing to the State Superintendent of Schools proposed findings of fact, proposed conclusions of law, and recommendations. The administrative law judge shall distribute this written proposed decision to the parties.

F.

A party objecting to the administrative law judge’s proposed decision may file exceptions with the State Superintendent of Schools within 15 calendar days of the date of the decision, and:

(1)

The party filing exceptions shall ensure that a copy of the exceptions are provided to the opposing party;

(2)

An opposing party may respond to the exceptions within 15 calendar days of the date of the exceptions;

(3)

All parties shall have an opportunity for oral argument before the State Superintendent of Schools before a final decision is made; and

(4)

The State Superintendent of Schools shall limit oral argument to 15 minutes per side.

Regulation .05 Record of Hearings.Link Copy Citation

A.

The Office of Administrative Hearings shall prepare an official case record as provided in COMAR 28.02.01.23.

B.

The Office of Administrative Hearings shall record the proceedings before the administrative law judge.

C.

A party requesting a transcript of the proceedings, or part of the proceedings, shall pay the costs of the transcript, and a party requesting an expedited transcript shall pay the costs of the expedited transcript

Regulation .06 Decisions.Link Copy Citation

A.

The State Superintendent of Schools shall make the final decision in all contested cases dealing with the revocation, suspension, or denial of a license.

B.

The State Superintendent of Schools shall make a final decision in writing containing findings of fact and conclusions of law.

C.

The State Superintendent of Schools shall promptly deliver or mail a copy of the decision to each party as well as the party’s attorney of record.

Regulation .07 Reconsideration of a Decision.Link Copy Citation

A.

A party aggrieved by the decision may file a written request for reconsideration with the State Superintendent of Schools within 30 calendar days of the date of the decision.

B.

The party requesting reconsideration shall serve copies of the request on all other parties.

C.

A party filing a response to a request for reconsideration shall do so within 15 calendar days of the date of the request for reconsideration.

D.

Action on the application for reconsideration shall lie at the discretion of the State Superintendent of Schools, except that a decision may not be disturbed unless there is a sufficient indication in the application that new facts material to the issues have been discovered or have occurred after the decision.

E.

The State Superintendent of Schools may refuse to consider facts that the party could have produced at the hearing.

F.

The State Superintendent of Schools may stay the decision at their discretion, on a finding of good cause.

G.

The State Superintendent of Schools may abrogate, change, or modify the original decision, or remand the case to the administrative law judge.

Regulation .08 Educator Identification Clearinghouse.Link Copy Citation

A.

The Educator Identification Clearinghouse is maintained by the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification to provide a mechanism for licensing agencies to exchange names of educators whose licenses have been denied, revoked, suspended, or surrendered.

B.

The State Superintendent of Schools shall notify the Educator Identification Clearinghouse of all surrender, suspension, revocation, and denial decisions as part of the interstate certification data exchange.

C.

The State Superintendent shall only provide final actions that are matters of public record to the Clearinghouse.

D.

The existence of a record in the Educator Identification Clearinghouse alone is not a basis for reciprocal action.

Regulation .09 Reinstatement.Link Copy Citation

A.

A professional license that has been suspended under this chapter is automatically reinstated at the end of the suspension period if the license did not expire during the period of suspension.

B.

If the license expires during the period of suspension, the holder of the former license may reapply but shall meet the licensure requirements that are in effect when the holder applied for the new license.

C.

If a decision of suspension, revocation, or voluntary surrender is based on Regulation .02C(1) or D(1) of this chapter and if the plea, probation before judgment, or conviction is overturned, or expunged, and there is no subsequent proceeding leading to a plea, probation before judgment, or conviction, the individual whose license is suspended, revoked, or voluntarily surrendered may file a written request for reinstatement, including documentation of the final status of the judicial proceeding.

D.

Reinstatement Review Panel.

(1)

An individual whose license was revoked under Regulation .02C of this chapter or voluntarily surrendered may request that the Reinstatement Review Panel reinstate the license not sooner than 10 years from the date of revocation.

(2)

The Reinstatement Review Panel shall consist of one member of the Maryland State Board of Education appointed by its president, one member of the Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board appointed by its chairperson, and the State Superintendent of Schools or designee.

(3)

The individual seeking reinstatement shall submit to the Reinstatement Review Panel a written request showing credible evidence, by affidavit or otherwise, of the factors set out in §C(4) of this regulation, and may request an opportunity to appear in person before the Panel.

(4)

The Reinstatement Review Panel shall consider the following facts in evaluating a petition for reinstatement:

(a)

The nature and circumstances of the individual’s original misconduct;

(b)

The individual’s subsequent conduct and reformation;

(c)

The individual’s present character; and

(d)

The individual’s present qualifications and competence.

(5)

The Reinstatement Review Panel may place conditions upon a reinstatement, including requiring an individual to complete ethics training.

(6)

On unanimous vote of the Reinstatement Review Panel and if the individual has met all current licensure requirements, and subject to any conditions placed on the reinstatement by the Reinstatement Review Panel, the State Superintendent of Schools shall reinstate the license.

(7)

On the Reinstatement Review Panel’s request, MSDE staff may advise the panel regarding the licensure regulations.

E.

A license revoked or voluntarily surrendered while an educator is under investigation for, or facing a petition identifying, grounds under Regulation .02D of this chapter may not be reinstated.

Regulation .01 Promulgation of Regulations.Link Copy Citation

A.

The State Board of Education and the Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board (PSTEB) shall develop for consideration regulations for:

(1)

The licensure of teachers and other professional personnel; and

(2)

Requirements for preparation of teachers and other education personnel.

B.

Regulations that are initiated by either the State Board or the PSTEB and submitted for review to the non-initiating Board shall be acted on within 60 days by the non-initiating Board.

Regulation .02 Review Board — Scope.Link Copy Citation

A.

The procedures in Regulations .03—.08 of this chapter govern all appeals from rulings of the Department’s licensure staff taken to the Review Board of the PSTEB.

B.

The appeals do not constitute contested cases under the Administrative Procedure Act, State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 2, Annotated Code of Maryland.

Regulation .03 Review Board — Method of Appeal.Link Copy Citation

A.

An appellant seeking review by the Review Board shall file a written request for appeal within 30 days from the date the appellant receives notice of the ruling of the licensure staff.

B.

The appellant shall address this written request for appeal to the chairperson of the Review Board, with a copy to the Assistant State Superintendent for Educator Licensure and Program Approval.

C.

The written request for appeal shall specify whether the appeal is to be on the record under Regulation .03 of this chapter or in person under Regulation .04 of this chapter. It shall include a statement of the appellant’s objections to the ruling of the licensure staff and the reasons supporting each objection.

D.

On receipt of a copy of the request, the Assistant State Superintendent for Educator Licensure and Program Approval shall:

(1)

Cause the entire file concerning the ruling to be transmitted to the Review Board;

(2)

Acknowledge receipt of the request in writing to the appellant;

(3)

Send a copy of this chapter to the appellant; and

(4)

Schedule the appeal promptly before the Review Board, allowing reasonable advance notice to all parties.

Regulation .04 Review Board — Appeal on the Record.Link Copy Citation

A.

At the appellant’s option, the Review Board may make findings and submit recommendations to the PSTEB based solely on the written record.

B.

The appellant may provide additional relevant documents to the Review Board, and shall submit a written statement explaining the appellant’s position. A party seeking to file additions to the file shall do so at least 15 days before the scheduled appeal.

C.

Licensure staff may submit a written response to the appellant’s statement and provide any additional relevant documents to the Review Board at least 10 days before the scheduled appeal.

D.

The appellant may submit a written reply to staff’s response at least 5 days before the scheduled appeal.

Regulation .05 Review Board — Appeal in Person.Link Copy Citation

A.

At the written request of the appellant, the Review Board shall allow oral argument on the appeal.

B.

The Review Board shall limit oral presentations at the hearing to 15 minutes for a representative of the licensure staff, followed by 15 minutes for the appellant.

C.

The Review Board may ask questions of either party. Other oral presentation or testimony is not permitted.

D.

Both parties may present a written summary of their oral presentation.

Regulation .06 Review Board — Findings and Recommendations.Link Copy Citation

A.

The Review Board shall deliberate the appeal in closed session and, by majority of the quorum present, make findings and recommendations to the PSTEB.

B.

The Review Board shall submit its findings and recommendations by the chairperson in a written report to the PSTEB. The Review Board shall ensure this report includes:

(1)

Issues in question;

(2)

Findings of fact;

(3)

Conclusions of law; and

(4)

Recommendations and reasons for them.

Regulation .07 Review Board — Exceptions.Link Copy Citation

A.

The appellant may file written exceptions to the Review Board’s findings and recommendations by submitting these exceptions to the chairperson of the PSTEB within 15 days from the date of the Review Board’s report.

B.

The licensure staff may file a written response to the exceptions within 10 days of the date the exceptions are filed.

Regulation .08 Review Board — Final Determination.Link Copy Citation

A.

The PSTEB shall make the final determination in each appeal from rulings of the licensure staff.

B.

Before making a final determination, the PSTEB shall provide each member with:

(1)

A copy of the ruling of the licensure staff which is the subject of the appeal;

(2)

The written request for appeal;

(3)

The written report of the Review Board;

(4)

Any documents in the file cited in the report; and

(5)

Any written exceptions and response to exceptions.

C.

The Department shall make the entire appeal file available to the PSTEB members on request.

D.

The PSTEB shall, by majority vote of the quorum present, accept or reject the recommendation of the Review Board. The decision of the PSTEB is final.

E.

The chairperson of the PSTEB shall notify the appellant in writing of the final determination, including the rationale for it.

Title 13A — Subtitle 12. Educator Licensure

Chapter 01. General Provisions

Regulation .01 Purpose.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Definitions.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Licensure Requirements of Education Personnel.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Issuance and Types of Licenses.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Military Reciprocity.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Reinstatement of an Expired Professional License.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Waiver of Licensure Requirements.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 02. Teachers

Regulation .01 Purpose.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Licenses for Teachers.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Pathways to Teacher Licensure.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Renewal and Advancement of a Teacher License.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Individual Professional Development Plans.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Professional Development Points.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Teaching Endorsements.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Assignment.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 03. Professional and Technical Education and Specialized Areas for Fine Arts

Regulation .01 Purpose.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Licenses and Pathways for Professional and Technical Education and Specialized Areas for Fine Arts.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Renewal and Advancement of a Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts License.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Individual Professional Development Plans — Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Professional Development Points- Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 04. Specialists

Regulation .01 Purpose.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Licenses for Specialists.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 School Counselor.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Library Media Specialist.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Pupil Personnel Worker.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Reading Specialist.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Reading Teacher.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Psychometrist.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .09 School Psychologist.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .10 Therapists (Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Speech-Language Pathologists, or Audiologists).LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .11 School Social Worker.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .12 Gifted and Talented Education Specialist.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .13 Renewal and Advancement of a Specialist License.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .14 Individual Professional Development Plans.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .15 Professional Development Points.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 05. Administrators and Supervisors

Regulation .01 Purpose.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Licenses for Administrators and Supervisors.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Supportive Services Personnel.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Superintendents.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Supervisors of Instruction, Assistant Principals, and Principals.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Library Media Administrator.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Supervisor of School Counseling.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Supervisor of School Psychological Services.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .09 Supervisor of Pupil Personnel.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .10 Supervisor of Special Education.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .11 Supervisor of Speech Pathologists and Audiologists.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .12 Supervisor of Teachers of Deaf and Hard of Hearing.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .13 Renewal and Advancement of an Administrator/Supervisor License.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .14 Individual Professional Development Plans.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .15 Professional Development Points.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 06. Disciplinary Actions and Denials

Regulation .01 Definitions.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Grounds for Disciplinary Action or Denial.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Petition for Disciplinary Action or Denial.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Hearing Procedures.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Record of Hearings.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Decisions.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Reconsideration of a Decision.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Educator Identification Clearinghouse.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .09 Reinstatement.LinkCopy Citation

Chapter 07. Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board

Regulation .01 Promulgation of Regulations.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .02 Review Board — Scope.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .03 Review Board — Method of Appeal.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .04 Review Board — Appeal on the Record.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .05 Review Board — Appeal in Person.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .06 Review Board — Findings and Recommendations.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .07 Review Board — Exceptions.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .08 Review Board — Final Determination.LinkCopy Citation

Regulation .01 Purpose.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Licensure Requirements of Education Personnel.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Issuance and Types of Licenses.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Military Reciprocity.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Reinstatement of an Expired Professional License.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Waiver of Licensure Requirements.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Purpose.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Licenses for Teachers.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Pathways to Teacher Licensure.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Renewal and Advancement of a Teacher License.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Individual Professional Development Plans.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Professional Development Points.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Teaching Endorsements.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Assignment.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Purpose.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Licenses and Pathways for Professional and Technical Education and Specialized Areas for Fine Arts.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Renewal and Advancement of a Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts License.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Individual Professional Development Plans — Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Professional Development Points- Professional and Technical Education/Specialized Areas for Fine Arts.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Purpose.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Licenses for Specialists.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 School Counselor.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Library Media Specialist.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Pupil Personnel Worker.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Reading Specialist.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Reading Teacher.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Psychometrist.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .09 School Psychologist.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .10 Therapists (Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Speech-Language Pathologists, or Audiologists).Link Copy Citation

Regulation .11 School Social Worker.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .12 Gifted and Talented Education Specialist.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .13 Renewal and Advancement of a Specialist License.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .14 Individual Professional Development Plans.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .15 Professional Development Points.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Purpose.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Licenses for Administrators and Supervisors.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Supportive Services Personnel.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Superintendents.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Supervisors of Instruction, Assistant Principals, and Principals.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Library Media Administrator.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Supervisor of School Counseling.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Supervisor of School Psychological Services.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .09 Supervisor of Pupil Personnel.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .10 Supervisor of Special Education.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .11 Supervisor of Speech Pathologists and Audiologists.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .12 Supervisor of Teachers of Deaf and Hard of Hearing.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .13 Renewal and Advancement of an Administrator/Supervisor License.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .14 Individual Professional Development Plans.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .15 Professional Development Points.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Definitions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Grounds for Disciplinary Action or Denial.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Petition for Disciplinary Action or Denial.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Hearing Procedures.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Record of Hearings.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Decisions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Reconsideration of a Decision.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Educator Identification Clearinghouse.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .09 Reinstatement.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .01 Promulgation of Regulations.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .02 Review Board — Scope.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .03 Review Board — Method of Appeal.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .04 Review Board — Appeal on the Record.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .05 Review Board — Appeal in Person.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .06 Review Board — Findings and Recommendations.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .07 Review Board — Exceptions.Link Copy Citation

Regulation .08 Review Board — Final Determination.Link Copy Citation