Guest speaker was Dr. Carey Wright, Maryland State Department of Education’s (MSDE) Superintendent of Schools. Topics covered included, the decline in Maryland's proficiency scores in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math over the last decade, Maryland’s Blueprint for Maryland’s Future which is in its third year, a federal grant, college and career readiness, updates to math and ELA standards, and the state’s assessment and accountability system. Carey advocates for focusing on the science of reading, which Maryland will implement statewide in 2024-2025. She highlighted the importance of early childhood education and apprenticeship opportunities but noted a need for more business partnerships. Governor Moore and the State Board of Education are strongly supporting these initiatives. Carey also addressed issues such as the teacher shortage and the exploration of alternative certification pathways. She acknowledged the challenges in child care scholarships within the Blueprint, which currently fall short of meeting family needs.