Maryland Students Return to Classrooms with Focus on Attendance and Achievement

Maryland students are beginning their 2025-26 academic year, with Frederick and St. Mary’s counties being the first to welcome students back on August 20. This staggered return will continue through September 2, encompassing all 24 school systems in the state. Nearly 890,000 students are expected to attend classes this year, as the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) emphasizes key priorities including regular student attendance, academic achievement, and enhanced support for teachers and school leaders.

The MSDE is committed to fostering a world-class public education system that prepares students for future success. This year’s initiatives aim to build upon the academic progress observed in the previous year. To measure and guide this progress, the MSDE plans to release results from the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) in the coming week. These assessments will provide valuable insights into student performance and identify areas where targeted interventions may be necessary to accelerate learning.

The first day of school for Maryland’s 24 school systems varies by county. Following the August 20 opening in Frederick and St. Mary’s counties, Anne Arundel, Baltimore City, Baltimore, Charles, Howard, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Talbot, and Washington counties will begin on August 25. Montgomery and Prince George’s counties will commence their school year on August 26, with Allegany County starting on August 27. The final group of counties, including Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Dorchester, Garrett, Harford, Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties, will begin their academic year on September 2. It is important for families to note that some counties may have staggered openings for different grade levels.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland State Department of Education.

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