Half of all Maryland public schools earned either a four- or five-star rating on the state’s latest Report Card, an increase of 7 percentage points since 2025.
The Maryland Report Card that was released Thursday will be the final installment of this version of the scoring system, which will be revamped for 2027.
Under the current rating system, schools can earn up to 100 points based on factors like academic achievement, school quality, student success, and graduation rate. They are then given a rating from one to five stars.
“This year’s results highlight the ongoing dedication of Maryland educators, students, and school communities,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “With one in five schools increasing their star rating, we are seeing yet another meaningful indicator of steady, statewide progress. The Maryland School Report Card continues to serve as a critical measure of how well we are supporting every learner, and we remain committed to ensuring that all students have access to high-quality instruction and meaningful opportunities for success.”
An advisory committee comprising local and state leaders, school staff, and community groups will help shape a new “accountability system” that will be redesigned “to increase transparency, and emphasize student growth in evaluating school performance,” according to the Maryland State Department of Education.
Although the Maryland Report Card will be redesigned, the current version offers important insights into schools’ and students’ performance, said Dr. Joshua L. Michael, president of the Maryland State Board of Education.
“The Maryland School Report Card remains an essential resource for transparency, accountability, and continuous growth,” Michael said. “The current accountability system plays a vital role in ensuring the public has a clear understanding of school performance. These results demonstrate how schools and districts are engaging with the system to strengthen student experiences and outcomes across the state.”
