Maryland State Board of Education Re-elects Leadership for 2026-2027 Term

The Maryland State Board of Education has unanimously re-elected Dr. Joshua L. Michael as President and elected Dr. James C. Bell as Vice President for the upcoming 2026-2027 term, according to a recent announcement from the Maryland State Department of Education. Both Dr. Michael and Dr. Bell were initially appointed to the State Board by Governor Wes Moore. During Dr. Michael’s previous two-year tenure as President, the Board has focused on enhancing teaching and learning across the state. Key initiatives have included the adoption of statewide literacy and mathematics programs, the redesign of the state’s assessment and accountability system, and the modernization of academic standards, instructional frameworks, and education regulations to better support student achievement.

Dr. Michael, who has served as President for two years, brings a wealth of experience to his leadership role. His background encompasses roles as an educator, a parent of public school students, and a policy expert. He currently serves as the Executive Director of the Sherman Family Foundation, a Baltimore-based nonprofit organization that provides grants to support children and families with a particular emphasis on early childhood and K-12 education. Dr. Michael’s career began as a middle school math teacher in Baltimore City, and he has also held positions such as Director of School Partnerships at UMBC. Notably, he previously served as the Student Member of the State Board during the 2005-2006 school year. Dr. Michael holds a bachelor’s degree and a doctorate in Public Policy from UMBC, as well as a master’s degree in School Leadership from Johns Hopkins University. He resides in Baltimore City with his wife and their three children, all of whom attend public schools.

Dr. James C. Bell, who joined the State Board in July 2025, is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in education, administration, and district leadership. He began his career as a math teacher and was promoted to assistant principal in Talbot County Public Schools within two years. His career progression continued as he served as a principal and later as Supervisor of Student Services in Dorchester County Public Schools. He also held the position of Director of Student Services and Secondary Leadership for the Seaford School District in Delaware. Since July 2022, Dr. Bell has been the Director of Instruction, Academic Support, and Community Well-Being at Building African American Minds (BAAM). Dr. Bell earned his bachelor’s degree from Southern University, a master’s degree in School Leadership, and a doctorate in Education Innovation and Leadership from Wilmington University in Georgetown, Delaware. He and his wife reside in Talbot County, and his two adult children are employed within the Talbot County school system, while his younger daughter and four grandchildren are currently students in TCPS. Dr. Michael and Dr. Bell will each serve one-year terms in their newly elected leadership positions. The State Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Carey M. Wright, expressed appreciation for the collaborative leadership demonstrated by Dr. Michael and Dr. Bell, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring all Maryland students have access to rigorous, engaging, and supportive learning environments.

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

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