MSDE Launches State-Led Teacher Coaching Pilot to Strengthen Literacy Instruction
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MSDE Launches State-Led Teacher Coaching Pilot to Strengthen Literacy Instruction
Seven coaches will support 14 Prince George’s County schools in the pilot.
BALTIMORE, MD (January 29, 2026) — The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has launched the Academic Excellence Program (AEP) teacher coaching pilot in partnership with Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), a major step toward improving educator support and accelerating student achievement.
The initiative introduces seven state-hired coaches who will provide weekly, job-embedded support to teachers at 14 Prince George’s County elementary schools. Research shows that teacher coaching improves instructional quality, boosts retention, and drives student growth.
“Reading is a superpower,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “When we give children the ability to read, we unlock every other opportunity for them. This pilot is about equipping teachers with the tools and support they need to make that happen for every child.”
“This initiative sets a gold standard for teacher support,” said Dr. Joshua Michael, State Board of Education President. “It reflects our commitment to ensuring every child has access to high-quality instruction. By investing in coaching, we are investing in both our educators and our students’ futures.”
MSDE plans to add a second cohort of 15 coaches in PGCPS by fall, reinforcing its commitment to educator development and student success.
“High-quality coaching is one of the most powerful levers we have to accelerate student achievement—especially in early literacy—while strengthening teachers’ practice and confidence,” said Dr. Shawn Joseph, Prince George’s County Public Schools Interim Superintendent. “By building coherence across classrooms and schools, we are ensuring every child in Prince George’s County has access to excellent, evidence-based instruction, no matter their zip code.”
The Academic Excellence Program was established by the Maryland General Assembly in 2025. The pilot phase is supported by philanthropic funding. Gov. Wes Moore has proposed a $10.9 million investment in the Fiscal Year 2027 budget to expand the program statewide.
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