Educators

Great teachers and schools can do their best work when their students have all the resources they need to succeed. By supporting the Maryland Education Credit, educators can help ensure that their school is able to provide a quality education for all. This legislation will encourage businesses to invest in local education by supporting nonprofit organizations that provide educational resources to both public and private school students.

If passed, the legislation will provide students in need with financial assistance that covers the educational resources and programs they need to excel, including:

• Books, schools supplies, uniforms, and other equipment students need to fully participate in their classes and school programs;
  
• Computers, Internet access and other technology to be used at home for educational purposes;
  
• Academic tutoring or special needs services, ensuring that every child receives the specialized instruction needed to reach his or her full potential; and
  
• Tuition and fees at private K-12 schools, which will stabilize enrollments at private schools and reduce overcrowded classes at public schools.

The Maryland Education Credit is designed to benefit students from low- and middle-income families throughout the state. Chances are good your current or prospective students will benefit! To be eligible to receive financial assistance, students must meet the following criteria:

• Students must attend an eligible public or private elementary or secondary school that is within a Priority Funding Area (as defined by the Maryland Department of Planning) OR that has been in continuous operation since 1970.
  
• Eligible nonpublic schools may not charge tuition in excess of the state-wide average public school per pupil cost; must have a certificate of approval from or be registered with the Maryland State Board of Education; and must administer nationally norm-referenced achievement testing to their students.
  
• Financial assistance will be awarded on a priority basis to all student applicants who qualify for the federal Free and Reduced Price meals program. Any remaining funds will be awarded on a sliding scale according to the family income needs of other student applicants.

To pass the Maryland Education Credit, we need all Maryland parents and students to make their voices heard. Here is how you can help:

• Tell your neighbors, colleagues and school community about the Maryland Education Credit and encourage them to visit this website to learn more.

• Call your representatives in the Maryland General Assembly and urge them to pass the Maryland Education Credit (SB 844 / HB 1216). Click here to find phone numbers and email addresses for your state Senator and Delegates.