Every two years, Congress releases an evaluation of educational progress known as the Nation’s Report Card. Regrettably, this report may not be one that Maryland would like to showcase on the refrigerator. While there are some data points that provide a hint of optimism, the scores in math and reading for Maryland students remain lower than the performance levels we experienced before the pandemic.

As the chancellor of Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore, I am fortunate to observe both the challenges and successes faced by educators in 58 elementary and high schools throughout Maryland, serving over 24,000 students. I understand the hurdles that educators have faced, especially in the aftermath of a devastating pandemic that brought significant logistical challenges and was a traumatic experience for all, particularly our youth. I am grateful to share a positive story in education within our archdiocesan schools and to reflect on the factors that have contributed to equitable and upward growth for our students across Maryland…