Maryland

Region III Comprehensive Center Work in Maryland Technical Assistance Services Brief Using Data for Program Improvement: New Directions for Maryland's Summer Program for Migrant Students Maryland Blue Ribbon Sister Schools Project		The Maryland Department of Education has used the Center as a resource in advancing state initiatives in the areas of comprehensive school reform, consolidated planning and funding, and the academic achievement of disadvantaged students. On the state level, the Center has provided ongoing consultation and professional development to assist the state in implementing the new state comprehensive planning and funding initiative - School Accountability Funding for Excellence (SAFE). Linked to the SAFE initiative is the State's CSRD program which Center staff supported by providing input to the State's RFP, developing a scoring rubric for school applications, providing program information and training district staff on comprehensive school reform. The Center staff has also worked closely with SEA staff on programs targeted to improve student achievement such as: establishing a school mentoring program linking Blue Ribbon Schools with Title I schools in need of improvement; developing an Even Start Transition Manual; implementing a Migrant Education summer program self assessment; identifying Title I Distinguished Schools; and training district staff in Safe and Drug Free Principles of Effectiveness. On the local level, Center staff have worked intensively with high poverty district and school staff on the CSRD program, 21st Century Community Learning Centers, Reading Success Network, implementing effective schoolwide programs, and action research.