The State Board of Education is the voice of the public in its role as policy maker for Maryland's public schools, public libraries, and vocational rehabilitation services. It solicits the views of interested groups and the public at large on all important issues. The State Board is a 12-member body appointed by the governor.
Members bring to their task a wide range of professional and civic experience.
Members serve staggered four-year terms and may serve two full terms. A student member serves a one-year term. She does not have a vote but does have an advisory role and is the administrative head of the State Department of Education. The Board sets the state's education policies and standards for pre-kindergarten through high school and for Maryland's public libraries and correctional education and vocational rehabilitation services. It passes regulations that have the force of law and is empowered to interpret the true meaning and intent of the law.