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Maryland Education Officials Report Five-Year Highs in MCAP English and Math Scores

Maryland Education Officials Report Five-Year Highs in MCAP English and Math Scores

Maryland education officials have released the latest results from the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP), indicating significant improvements in English and math scores across various grade levels. These scores represent a five-year high, showcasing the progress made in the state's educational standards. The MCAP is a standardized test used to evaluate student proficiency in core academic areas, and the recent results suggest that educational initiatives and teaching strategies implemented over the past few years are yielding positive outcomes.

Montgomery County Schools Show Progress in Test Scores, Outpacing State Averages

Montgomery County Schools Show Progress in Test Scores, Outpacing State Averages

Montgomery County students have demonstrated slight progress in reading and math, maintaining scores above the statewide averages according to the latest standardized test results. The Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program, which evaluates students in grades 3-8 and some high schoolers in English, math, and science, revealed these improvements. Superintendent Thomas Taylor expressed optimism, noting the steady improvement in proficiency across the board. The district is analyzing these results to assess the effectiveness of recent changes to academic programs and curricula in Maryland's largest school system.

Maryland's Blueprint Board to Discuss Comprehensive Plan Updates Amid New Appointments

Maryland's Blueprint Board to Discuss Comprehensive Plan Updates Amid New Appointments

The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Accountability and Implementation Board is set to meet online to discuss updates to the comprehensive plan guiding state agencies and school districts. The meeting will include reappointed board members Isiah Leggett and Robin Werner, who were selected by Governor Wes Moore for new six-year terms. The agenda includes proposed updates to the Blueprint plan, which must be revised annually by August 1, incorporating new policies from the General Assembly's recent session. Additionally, the Maryland Public Service Commission has appointed Tony Ruffin, a former Pepco executive, as its new communications director.

Maryland's Blueprint Board Sees Reappointments and New PSC Communications Director

Maryland's Blueprint Board Sees Reappointments and New PSC Communications Director

The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Accountability and Implementation Board is set to meet virtually, with Isiah 'Ike' Leggett and Robin Werner reappointed by Governor Wes Moore to new six-year terms. Leggett, the first Black county executive in Montgomery County, has been the board's chair since its inception in November 2021. The board oversees the implementation of Maryland's multiyear education reform plan. Additionally, Tony Ruffin, formerly of Pepco, has been appointed as the new communications director for the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC). Ruffin replaces Tori Leonard, who retired after a decade of service. The PSC is responsible for regulating utilities in Maryland, and Ruffin's experience in utility and government affairs is expected to be valuable in his new role.

Severe Storms Threaten Washington D.C. with Tornado and Flooding Risks

Severe Storms Threaten Washington D.C. with Tornado and Flooding Risks

The Washington D.C. region is facing a significant weather threat as severe storms move through the area. The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for several counties in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. until 10 p.m. Additionally, a flash flood warning is in effect for parts of Anne Arundel and Baltimore counties and the city of Baltimore. The storms are expected to bring damaging winds, large hail, and heavy rain, with the potential for isolated tornadoes. The severe weather is associated with a strong cold front moving through the region, with storm chances ending between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.

Severe Weather Alert: Tornado Watch and Flash Flooding in Maryland

Severe Weather Alert: Tornado Watch and Flash Flooding in Maryland

The National Weather Service has issued tornado and severe thunderstorm watches for much of Maryland, effective until 10:00 PM on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The Storm Prediction Center has placed the region under a slight risk for severe weather. Damaging winds are the primary concern, but heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding in some areas. Chief Meteorologist Tom Tasselmyer reports that storms are producing heavy downpours, lightning, and pockets of hail. While most storms are expected to taper off overnight, a lingering shower may persist into early Wednesday. Conditions are expected to improve by Wednesday afternoon, with drier weather and temperatures in the mid-80s °F (approximately 29 °C).

Severe Thunderstorm Watch in Effect Across Maryland Until 10 PM

Severe Thunderstorm Watch in Effect Across Maryland Until 10 PM

Maryland is experiencing a First Alert Weather Day due to severe thunderstorms capable of producing heavy rain, lightning, and potentially severe weather conditions. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for the entire WJZ Viewing Area, including Baltimore City, and will remain in effect until 10 p.m. Even non-severe storms are expected to bring heavy rainfall and frequent lightning. Temperatures are forecasted to rebound into the mid-80s °F (approximately 29 °C) on Wednesday afternoon, with scattered showers and storms continuing. The weather is expected to trend hotter and muggier heading into the weekend, with chances of scattered summer storms increasing.

Baltimore Ravens Secure Long-Term Headquarters Agreement in Owings Mills

Baltimore Ravens Secure Long-Term Headquarters Agreement in Owings Mills

Baltimore Ravens Secure Long-Term Headquarters Agreement in Owings Mills

Montgomery County Schools Implement Bell-to-Bell Cellphone Ban for Students

Montgomery County Schools Implement Bell-to-Bell Cellphone Ban for Students

Montgomery County, Maryland, is introducing a new policy for the upcoming school year that bans cellphone use for students from the start bell to the dismissal bell. This policy, which will be included in the Student Code of Conduct for the 2026-27 school year, aims to improve student performance by reducing distractions. The decision was made after feedback from principals and teachers indicated that similar restrictions in middle schools led to improved academic achievement. The policy is designed to be a learning opportunity rather than punitive, with a focus on educating students and parents about its benefits.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen's Visit to El Salvador Sparks Controversy Over Immigration Priorities

Sen. Chris Van Hollen's Visit to El Salvador Sparks Controversy Over Immigration Priorities

Senator Chris Van Hollen's visit to El Salvador's Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo in March 2025 has stirred controversy. The visit was to meet with Abrego, a deported former executive director of President Trump's Council of Advisers on Digital. Critics argue that Van Hollen's actions suggest a prioritization of non-citizens over his constituents, as he did not show similar support for the Maryland family of Rachel Morin, who was murdered by an illegal immigrant in 2023. The visit has become a focal point in discussions about immigration policies and the perceived creation of a two-tier legal system that some believe disadvantages U.S. citizens.

Maryland Under Severe Weather Alert with Risk of Strong Storms and Flooding

Maryland Under Severe Weather Alert with Risk of Strong Storms and Flooding

Maryland is under a severe weather alert with the potential for strong to severe storms on Tuesday afternoon and evening. The Storm Prediction Center has placed most of the state under a slight risk for severe weather, with damaging winds and heavy rain as primary concerns. Flood watches are in effect, and residents are advised to be cautious of potential flash flooding. The storms are expected to bring gusts of 50-60 mph and a low-end risk for tornadoes.

Maryland's High Vaccination Rate Mitigates Measles Spread Amid National Surge

Maryland's High Vaccination Rate Mitigates Measles Spread Amid National Surge

Maryland has reported a significant increase in measles cases, with 12 confirmed cases so far this year, compared to just three in 2025. Despite this rise, the state's high vaccination rate of 96% has prevented further community transmission. Most cases were imported from out-of-state or international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that measles cases have reached a 35-year high nationwide, with 2,318 cases confirmed across 44 states and Washington, D.C. Maryland's neighboring states, Virginia and Pennsylvania, are experiencing larger outbreaks, with vaccination rates below the recommended 96% in certain areas.