reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 8 - Transportation › Section 7-801 - Transportation of Students by County Governing Body

(a)    (1)    In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2)    “Nonpublic school” means an elementary or secondary school in Calvert County that does not receive State aid.
(3)    “Public school bus” includes any other conveyance used to transport students to a public school.
(b)    (1)    At its own expense, a county governing body may provide transportation for public school students in addition to the transportation provided by the State.
(2)    In Montgomery County, a fee may not be charged for transporting public school students to school from their designated bus stop locations or from school to their designated bus stop locations.
(c)    (1)    Subject to the requirements of paragraph (2) of this subsection, in Calvert County the county board may provide transportation to and from school on a public school bus for a student who attends a nonpublic school.
(2)    Transportation offered by the Calvert County Board under this section shall be offered to a student attending a nonpublic school:
(i)    If there is sufficient capacity on the school bus;
(ii)    If the student resides on, along, or near a public highway in the county on which a public school bus or conveyance operates;
(iii)    If the student resides in the public school transportation district served by the public school bus;
(iv)    Only on the routes, school days, and hours of transportation that coincide with the routes, school days, and hours of transportation for students attending public schools in the county; and
(v)    In the case of a student who attends a nonpublic school that is not on the public school bus route, only to the public school on the route which is nearest to the nonpublic school.
(3)    The Calvert County Board is not responsible for the safety of any nonpublic school student who is transported on a public school bus under this subsection after the student is discharged from the public school bus, and the board may not be held liable in any civil action arising from an act or omission that occurs after the student is discharged from the public school bus.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 8 - Transportation › Section 7-803 - Use of School Buses to Transport the Elderly

(a)    Each county board may establish a procedure to provide for the use of its school buses, on application, for the transportation of individuals 60 years old or older to civic, educational, social, or recreational activities if this use:
(1)    Does not interfere with the transportation of school children; and
(2)    Is available to all individuals 60 years old or older.
(b)    Each county may:
(1)    Contract with its county board for the use of school buses; and
(2)    Include funds in the county budget to pay the expenses, including payment of school bus drivers and insurance, incurred by the county board in the use of school buses as provided in this section.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 8 - Transportation › Section 7-804 - Length of Use of School Bus

(a)    In this section, “school vehicle” has the meaning stated in § 11–154 of the Transportation Article.
(b)    (1)    Except as provided in paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subsection, unless it fails to meet the applicable school bus and motor vehicle safety standards, a school vehicle may be operated for 12 years.
(2)    (i)    In Allegany, Calvert, Caroline, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Garrett, Kent, Queen Anne’s, St. Mary’s, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico, and Worcester counties, unless it fails to meet the applicable school bus and motor vehicle safety standards, a school vehicle may be operated for 15 years.
(ii)    A school vehicle operating under subparagraph (i) of this paragraph shall be maintained as provided in subsection (c) of this section.
(3)    Any school vehicle in operation or accepted before July 1, 2004, or under contract to be purchased before July 1, 2004, that meets the specifications of the Department and of the Motor Vehicle Administration for transit style school vehicles may be operated for 15 years.
(c)    Notwithstanding the 12–year limitation in subsection (b)(1) of this section, a school vehicle may be operated for additional years if:
(1)    The school vehicle is maintained under a preventive maintenance plan approved by the Motor Vehicle Administration and the Automotive Safety Enforcement Division of the Department of State Police that includes an inspection at the end of the 12th year and a minimum of 2 inspections by the Motor Vehicle Administration each year thereafter;
(2)    Any structural repairs to the school vehicle necessitated by accident, metal fatigue, or any other cause are certified by an independent expert approved by the Motor Vehicle Administration to meet or exceed the manufacturer’s original manufacturing standards;
(3)    The school vehicle is equipped with:
(i)    The body originally placed on the chassis by the manufacturer;
(ii)    An 8 light warning system;
(iii)    A left side stop arm;
(iv)    A fire–retardant driver’s seat;
(v)    Fire–retardant barriers in the case of a school vehicle with a front engine; and
(vi)    A fire–retardant rear seating area in the case of a school vehicle with a rear engine; and
(4)    The State Superintendent grants approval.
(d)    If a school vehicle passes an inspection that is required under subsection (c)(1) of this section:
(1)    The inspection shall be valid in the county in which the inspection was completed; and
(2)    If ownership of the school vehicle is transferred to a person who operates the school vehicle in a county in which school vehicles are authorized under subsection (b)(2) of this section to be operated for 15 years, the inspection shall be valid in that county for the length of time that the inspection would have been valid in the county where the inspection was completed.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 8 - Transportation › Section 7-805 - Transportation of Students Living Within Mileage Limit

(a)    A school bus may be used to transport any student who lives within the mileage limit, if a mileage limit has been established by a local board of education, and if:
(1)    The school bus is not filled to capacity;
(2)    No additional bus stop is added to the route to transport the student; and
(3)    The transportation officer or his designee has identified a specific existing hardship that would justify allowing the student to be transported.
(b)    The transportation allocation of a county may not be reduced because of compliance with this section.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 8 - Transportation › Section 7-806 - Pupil Transportation Safety Advisory Committee

(a)    In Baltimore County, the Superintendent of Schools shall establish a Pupil Transportation Safety Advisory Committee.
(b)    The Pupil Transportation Safety Advisory Committee shall be composed of at least the following:
(1)    Two parent members, appointed by the Superintendent;
(2)    A representative of the Baltimore County Police Department;
(3)    A representative of the Baltimore County Highway Department;
(4)    A representative of the Baltimore County traffic engineering office; and
(5)    A representative of the State Highway Administration.
(c)    The committee shall be available to advise the pupil transportation staff of the Baltimore County Board of Education with regard to matters of safety of school bus stops and the safety of student walking conditions.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 8 - Transportation › Section 7-807 - Baltimore County Pick Up and Discharge Safety Procedures

(a)    This section applies only to Baltimore County.
(b)    A school bus driver shall pick up or discharge a student at a designated bus stop that is located along a public road or highway in a manner that does not require the student to walk across the public road or highway:
(1)    If the student is an elementary school student and the public road or highway has a posted speed limit of 35 miles per hour or greater; and
(2)    If the student is a secondary school student and the public road or highway has a posted speed limit of 40 miles per hour or greater.
(c)    A public awareness campaign concerning school bus pick up and discharge shall be conducted by the Baltimore County Board of Education and the Transportation Department of the Baltimore County Public Schools, in conjunction with the Baltimore County Police Department, 1 month prior to the opening of school and during the first month of each school year.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 8 - Transportation › Section 7-808 - Fire Safety of School Buses

(a)    In this section, “school bus” has the meaning stated in § 11–153 of the Transportation Article.
(b)    A school bus shall be constructed with materials that enable it to meet all the criteria of the school bus seat upholstery fire block test established by the National School Transportation specifications and procedures adopted at the most recent National Congress on School Transportation.
(c)    The Motor Vehicle Administration, with the advice of the Department, shall adopt regulations to promote fire safety standards of school buses.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 8 - Transportation › Section 7-809 - Montgomery County -- School Buses With Doors That Lock

In Montgomery County, notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Montgomery County Board of Education may utilize a school bus with doors that lock to transport students in the county if the school bus’s locking system prevents the school bus from being operated when any bus exit is locked.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9 - Technology for Education › Section 7-901 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Computer-based technology” means computer hardware or software used by teachers and students in the delivery of an instructional program.
(c)    “Eligible consortium” includes a local educational agency and a public or private nonprofit organization.
(d)    “Instructional programming” means the full range of audio and video text, graphics, or additional state-of-the-art communications distributed through interactive, command and control, or passive methods for the purpose of education and instruction.
(e)    “Students” means students from a broad range of backgrounds and circumstances, including:
(1)    Disadvantaged students;
(2)    Students with diverse racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds;
(3)    Students with disabilities;
(4)    Students with limited English proficiency;
(5)    Students who have dropped out of school; and
(6)    Academically talented students.
(f)    “Technology” means the latest state-of-the-art technology products and services, including:
(1)    Closed circuit television systems;
(2)    Educational television and radio broadcasting;
(3)    Cable television;
(4)    Satellite;
(5)    Copper and fiber-optic transmission;
(6)    Computer and computer-based technology;
(7)    Video and audio laser and CD ROM discs;
(8)    Video and audio tapes or other technologies; and
(9)    Web-based resources and courses.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9 - Technology for Education › Section 7-902 - Legislative Findings

The General Assembly finds that:
(1)    Technology applications can propel the State’s school systems into immediate and dramatic reform, without which the State will not meet the very ambitious National Education Goals;
(2)    Creative uses of technology can reshape the State’s outdated method of providing education and empower teachers to create an environment where students can be challenged through rigorous, rich classroom instruction at a pace that suits the learning style of each individual student;
(3)    The acquisition and use of technology in education throughout the State has been enhanced by:
(i)    The increased exposure of students and teachers to the power of technology as a cost–effective tool to improve student learning and achievement;
(ii)    The ability of the State and county boards to invest in and support needed technologies;
(iii)    The increased networking infrastructure and Internet access in schools and in classrooms; and
(iv)    The increased availability of technology–enhanced curriculum, staff development, and administrative support resources and services in the educational marketplace;
(4)    Advancements in technology offer new and interesting possibilities to promote new partnerships among teachers, students, parents, communities, and industry in the quest for knowledge and the process for learning;
(5)    The use of technology will cultivate and maintain a technologically literate citizenry and internationally competitive workforce when used as an essential tool in the learning process;
(6)    In support of the overall national technology policy, the State Department of Education and the Department of Commerce must assume a vital leadership and coordinating role in providing the State’s vision and strategy to infuse advanced technology throughout all educational programs;
(7)    State support can ease the burden at the local level by enabling the acquisition of advanced technology, teacher training and support, Web–based distance–learning resources, and market development for new educational products;
(8)    Continuing professional development for teachers and administrators requires constant access to the latest advancements in technology to keep teachers and administrators excited and knowledgeable about the unfolding opportunities for the classroom; and
(9)    The increasing use of new technologies and telecommunications systems in business has increased the gap between schooling and workforce preparation.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9 - Technology for Education › Section 7-903 - Purpose

It is the purpose of this subtitle:
(1)    To offer incentives and opportunities for creative public and private partnerships within the marketplace to develop state-of-the-art educational technology products and services that promote the use of advanced technologies in the classroom;
(2)    To avoid duplication and the development of incompatible systems by strengthening and building upon existing telecommunications infrastructure dedicated to educational purposes;
(3)    To provide Maryland public school students with equal opportunities to develop a strong academic foundation;
(4)    To facilitate expanded educational choices not otherwise available to Maryland public school students through on-line courses and services; and
(5)    To expand professional development opportunities available to educational staff in Maryland public schools through on-line courses and services.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9 - Technology for Education › Section 7-904 - Authority of State Superintendent

(a)    The State Superintendent may:
(1)    Procure and develop curriculum-based learning resources using state-of-the-art technologies and techniques designed to increase the achievement levels of all students in all subject areas;
(2)    Procure and develop long-term comprehensive instructional programming and associated support resources that ensure maximum access by all educational institutions;
(3)    Develop standards for teachers and other school system employees for the offering of courses or services on the Internet or through other developing technologies;
(4)    Review courses and courseware to assure quality and alignment with the Maryland content standards and other appropriate standards;
(5)    Track and issue periodic reports on the type and frequency of courses or services utilized by teachers and other professionals under this section; and
(6)    Award grants to eligible private or public consortia to enable eligible consortia to develop state-of-the-art technology-enhanced instructional products, resources, and services for use in the classroom, including:
(i)    The development, production, and distribution of instructional programming for students;
(ii)    Staff development programming for teachers; and
(iii)    Incorporation of creative state-of-the-art applications of technology-enhanced learning resources, such as:
1.    Computer software;
2.    Databases;
3.    Films;
4.    Transparencies;
5.    Multimedia video and audio discs;
6.    Telecommunications;
7.    Educational television;
8.    Print resources; and
9.    Web-based resources and courses.
(b)    In accordance with Subtitle 10A of this title, the State Superintendent shall award a grant for the implementation of a pilot program to introduce elementary age students to computer technology and train teachers to integrate that technology into their curriculum.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9 - Technology for Education › Section 7-905 - Grants

In awarding grants under § 7-904(a) of this subtitle, the State Superintendent shall give priority to applications describing programs or systems that are developed:
(1)    For statewide application at a reasonable cost;
(2)    In consultation with classroom teachers; and
(3)    Through consultation and collaboration with appropriate educational entities to ensure relevance to State content standards and to other appropriate State standards.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9 - Technology for Education › Section 7-906 - Royalties; Financial Benefits

(a)    Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any royalties or fees paid to any county board or to the Department as a result of assistance provided under this subtitle shall be used by the county board or Department for further development of curriculum-based learning resources authorized under this subtitle.
(b)    (1)    The State Superintendent shall allow an eligible consortium to receive a financial benefit from the distribution of programming assisted under this subtitle.
(2)    An eligible consortium that receives a financial benefit shall use the benefit:
(i)    To support further development of curriculum-specific programming; and
(ii)    To provide greater access to a wider audience of educational programming.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9 - Technology for Education › Section 7-907 - Assistance to Eligible Consortia

(a)    The State Superintendent and the Secretary of Commerce may provide assistance to an eligible consortium to enable the eligible consortium to establish, promote, advance, improve, and participate in projects for the purpose of encouraging the understanding and use of technology in connection with education.
(b)    An eligible consortium assisted under subsection (a) of this section shall develop:
(1)    An interactive video, audio, and text communications database;
(2)    Connectivity between elementary and secondary schools, colleges, and universities;
(3)    A means to provide information to teachers, administrators, parents, and other interested community entities on State and local educational technology initiatives;
(4)    A staff demonstration project; and
(5)    A significant contribution and participation from business and industry, local government, teacher associations, administrator associations, regional high technology councils, and community leaders.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9 - Technology for Education › Section 7-908 - Authority and Participation of State Superintendent and Secretary of Commerce

The State Superintendent, in collaboration with the Secretary of Commerce, may:
(1)    Provide direction and support for the conduct of research on advanced educational technologies;
(2)    Provide support for long–term comprehensive educational applications of advanced high performance computer and communication technologies and video technologies in support of the core subjects of the National Education Goals;
(3)    Ensure that high performance computing and telecommunications networks (or information highways) are developed with consideration to the needs of elementary and secondary education to facilitate educational uses, to provide access to classrooms and libraries in elementary and secondary schools, and to improve student learning; and
(4)    Assess the effectiveness of technology in education programs.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9 - Technology for Education › Section 7-909 - Grants and Contracts to Develop Educational Applications Using Advanced Technologies

(a)    The State Superintendent may award grants to or enter into contracts with eligible consortia for research projects intended to develop educational applications using advanced technologies.
(b)    (1)    To obtain a grant or a contract under this section, an eligible consortium shall submit to the State Superintendent an application at the time and in the form that the State Superintendent requires.
(2)    The State Superintendent shall require an application submitted under paragraph (1) of this subsection clearly to define:
(i)    The scope and content of the subject matter of the research; and
(ii)    The relevance of the advanced technology to the content for purposes of improving both the educational system and the State’s economic competitiveness.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9A - Mdk12 Digital Library › Section 7-9A-02 - Findings

The General Assembly finds that:
(1)    Technology applications can propel the State’s schools into immediate and dramatic reform without which the State will not meet the ambitious No Child Left Behind goals, the Department’s Strategic Plan, or the Department’s Technology Plan;
(2)    Access to appropriate high quality digital content supports the preparation of the State’s students for the current and future workforce with the knowledge and skills necessary for the success of and the socioeconomic benefit to the State;
(3)    Providing equitable access to digital content for the State’s students and educators helps to prepare students to pursue high–level careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics for the good of the State and the nation;
(4)    Creative uses of technology can provide an environment where students are challenged through rigorous, relevant learning experiences that address the learning styles of each student; and
(5)    There is a need to provide equitable access to high quality digital content across districts and schools through the Internet and through developing technologies.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 9A - Mdk12 Digital Library › Section 7-9A-04 - Purpose

The purposes of the MDK12 Digital Library are to:
(1)    Provide equitable access to digital content for all Maryland K–12 students and educators;
(2)    Improve school library programs with advanced digital technologies;
(3)    Create fiscal efficiencies in the purchase of digital content through enhanced cooperation among schools and the Department; and
(4)    Support effective teaching and learning by connecting digital content with the Maryland content standards, workforce development, and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics initiatives.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 10 - Maryland Technology Academy › Section 7-1001 - Purpose, Participation, and Funding

(a)    There is a Maryland Technology Academy in the Department.
(b)    The purpose of the Academy is to:
(1)    Provide intensive learning opportunities for teachers in the State each year on how to use technology to significantly impact student learning; and
(2)    Promote the overall improvement of public schools in the State.
(c)    Under the direction and supervision of the Department, the Academy shall arrange for the conducting of 3- to 5-week summer sessions each year for elementary, middle, and high school teachers in the State.
(d)    The summer sessions shall utilize an intensive curriculum in technology that is structured in such a manner to require the participating teachers to:
(1)    Examine and discuss technological research and engage in practicing the use of technology in the classroom and school setting;
(2)    Participate in and critique demonstrations of the use of technology;
(3)    Prepare and present a technology-based project in an area of interest; and
(4)    Develop an understanding and knowledge of how to collect and analyze student data to determine effective uses of technology and how the use of technology impacts student learning.
(e)    The Academy shall organize the summer sessions on the basis of:
(1)    Creating participant teams of elementary, middle, and high school teachers as well as instructors from colleges of education; and
(2)    Utilizing instructors from institutions of higher education as well as teacher experts, national experts, and outside consultants.
(f)    The Academy shall provide opportunities for teachers, after their completion of a summer session, to continue to learn about the uses and impact of technology in the classroom through the establishment of appropriate conferences, study groups, distance-learning activities, and peer coaching sessions.
(g)    The Department shall establish guidelines for the application and selection of participants in the Academy and any other appropriate matter to implement the provisions of this subtitle.
(h)    Funds for the Academy shall be as provided in the annual budget of the Department.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 10A - Educational Technology Pilot Program › Section 7-10A-01 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Pilot program” means the Educational Technology Pilot Program.
(c)    “Program provider” means a nonprofit organization that, as determined by the State Superintendent:
(1)    Exclusively focuses on the improvement of performance management and the use of technology for other nonprofit organizations and schools;
(2)    Has demonstrated experience in providing a range of assistance to nonprofit community-based organizations and schools including:
(i)    Assessing performance and the use of technology;
(ii)    Developing recommendations to improve performance and the use of technology; and
(iii)    Implementing those recommendations;
(3)    Has demonstrated the ability to identify areas for program improvement related to the use of technology in classrooms and by administrators;
(4)    Has demonstrated the ability to develop an implementation plan for recommended improvements;
(5)    Has demonstrated the ability to assist with and provide on-site, hands-on guidance with the implementation of the recommendations; and
(6)    Has demonstrated the ability to create an on-line community that allows teachers, parents, policymakers, and other stakeholders to communicate and provide support during and following the assessment and implementation process.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 10A - Educational Technology Pilot Program › Section 7-10A-04 - Development of Implementation Plan

In accordance with § 7-10A-05 of this subtitle, the State Superintendent and program providers, chosen by the State Superintendent, shall develop a plan to implement the pilot program in two elementary schools in the following school systems:
(1)    Baltimore City;
(2)    Dorchester County;
(3)    Prince George’s County;
(4)    Somerset County; and
(5)    St. Mary’s County.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 10A - Educational Technology Pilot Program › Section 7-10A-05 - Requirements for Implementation Plan

The plan to implement the pilot program shall:
(1)    Provide a useful educational medium for students in the pilot program;
(2)    Be capable of being implemented at a reasonable cost;
(3)    Encourage and develop students’ familiarity with computer technology and train teachers to integrate such technology into their curriculum;
(4)    Add to the increased performance of the students participating in the program; and
(5)    Provide performance indicators that illustrate how teachers’ familiarity with technology and teaching resources within the pilot program have increased.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 10A - Educational Technology Pilot Program › Section 7-10A-08 - Reports

In the counties in which the pilot program is implemented, each county board shall issue a report on the status of, and the benefits accrued from, the pilot program, to the Governor and, in accordance with § 2-1257 of the State Government Article, to the General Assembly within 2 years from the date the State Superintendent awards a grant to the county board under this subtitle.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 11 - Student Behavior Intervention › Section 7-1101 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following terms have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Behavior intervention plan” means a proactive plan designed to address problem behavior exhibited by a student in the educational setting through the use of positive behavioral interventions, strategies, and supports.
(c)    “Nonpublic school” means a school that receives funds from the Department for the purpose of providing special education and related services to students with disabilities.
(d)    (1)    “Physical restraint” means a personal restriction that immobilizes a student or reduces the ability of a student to move their torso, arms, legs, or head freely that occurs during school hours.
(2)    “Physical restraint” does not include:
(i)    Briefly holding a student in order to calm or comfort the student;
(ii)    Holding a student’s hand or arm to escort the student safely from one area to another;
(iii)    Moving a disruptive student who is unwilling to leave the area when other methods such as counseling have been unsuccessful; or
(iv)    Breaking up a fight in the school building or on school grounds.
(e)    “Public agency” means the Department, a local school system, the Maryland School for the Deaf, the Maryland School for the Blind, or the Juvenile Services Education Program.
(f)    (1)    “Seclusion” means the confinement of a student alone in a room, an enclosure, or any other space from which the student is physically prevented from leaving during school hours.
(2)    “Seclusion” does not include a behavior intervention plan of separating a student by placing the student:
(i)    Into a nonlocked room from which the student is allowed to leave; or
(ii)    Within a separate location in a classroom from which the student is not physically prevented from leaving.
(g)    “Trauma–informed intervention” means an approach to behavior intervention that is informed by the recognition that the experience of trauma, including the experience of violence, abuse, neglect, disaster, terrorism, and war, may have a significant impact on an individual’s physical and emotional health and ability to function.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 11 - Student Behavior Intervention › Section 7-1103 - Counting Separate Incidents of Seclusion -- Notice to the Department and Local School System -- Actions by Local School System -- Notice by Public Agency -- Actions by Department

(a)    In this section, each incident during a behavioral health intervention in which a student is enclosed in a room, enclosure, or other space and prevented from leaving, shall be counted as a separate incident of seclusion regardless of the duration of the incident.
(b)    (1)    If a student enrolled in a public school is physically restrained 10 times or more in a school year, the public school shall provide notice to the Department and the local school system at the earliest opportunity, but not longer than 4 business days after the student’s 10th incident of physical restraint.
(2)    If a student placed in a nonpublic school by the local school system is physically restrained or placed in seclusion 10 times or more in a school year, the nonpublic school shall provide notice to the Department and the local school system at the earliest opportunity, but not longer than 4 business days after the student’s 10th incident of physical restraint or seclusion.
(c)    On receipt of notice from a public school or nonpublic school under subsection (b) of this section, the local school system shall:
(1)    Review the student’s case, including the circumstances of each incident of physical restraint or seclusion;
(2)    Assess the public school’s or nonpublic school’s pattern of behavioral health interventions to evaluate whether the public  school or nonpublic school could use less restrictive behavioral health interventions; and
(3)    Share the local school system’s recommendations with the Department and the public school or nonpublic school.
(d)    If a student enrolled in a public agency that is not a public school is physically restrained 10 times or more in a school year, the public agency shall provide notice to the Department at the earliest opportunity, but not longer than 4 business days after the student’s 10th incident of physical restraint.
(e)    On receipt of notice from a public agency under subsection (d) of this section, the Department shall:
(1)    Review the student’s case, including the circumstances of each incident of physical restraint;
(2)    Assess the public agency’s pattern of behavioral health interventions to evaluate whether the public agency could use less restrictive behavioral health interventions; and
(3)    Share the Department’s recommendations with the public agency.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 11 - Student Behavior Intervention › Section 7-1106 - Corrective Action Plan Filed by School to Department -- Adoption of Regulations

(a)    A public agency and the local school system in which the public agency is located or a nonpublic school shall submit a systemic, evidence–based corrective action plan to the Department if the public agency or nonpublic school:
(1)    Fails to comply with any provision of this subtitle; or
(2)    Reports to the Department that a student has been physically restrained or placed in seclusion 10 times or more in a school year under § 7–1103 of this subtitle.
(b)    The Department shall adopt regulations to implement the provisions of this section.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 11 - Student Behavior Intervention › Section 7-1107 - Consultation Concerning Training Requirements

(a)    Subject to the requirements of this section, the State Superintendent shall, in consultation with representatives of institutions of higher education and the Professional Standards and Teacher Education Board under Title 6, Subtitle 7 of this article, adopt positive behavioral intervention training requirements for teachers, administrators, behavioral health specialists, paraprofessionals, aides, and any other employees who interact routinely with students.
(b)    Before adopting the training requirements under subsection (a) of this section, the State Superintendent shall identify any gaps in behavioral interventions, strategies, and supports.
(c)    The training requirements adopted under subsection (a) of this section shall include positive behavioral interventions, strategies, and supports that:
(1)    Are evidence–based;
(2)    Include trauma–informed interventions and strategies for de–escalation;
(3)    Remedy any gaps identified under subsection (b) of this section; and
(4)    Are consistent with professionally accepted practices and standards for persons entering the field of education.
(d)    (1)    The training requirements adopted under subsection (a) of this section shall be the basis of a program of professional development that the State Superintendent shall share with school employees from public agencies and nonpublic schools.
(2)    The State Superintendent shall issue guidance on best practices in implementing positive behavior intervention plans that are the basis for the professional development program.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 13 - Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children › Section 7-1301 - Definitions

(a)    The definitions in § 1–101 of this article do not apply to the Interstate Compact set forth in § 7–1303 of this subtitle.
(b)    In the Interstate Compact set forth in § 7–1303 of this subtitle, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, “article”, “section”, and “subsection” mean an article, section, and subsection, respectively, of the Interstate Compact.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 14 - Virtual Schools › Section 7-1401 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Quality online education standards” means the National Standards for Quality Online Programs: Second Edition (2019).
(c)    “Sponsor” means the Department or a county school board, having a fiduciary responsibility for the operation of the virtual school.
(d)    “Virtual school” means a public school established by the Department or by a county board under § 4–109 of this article in which the school uses technology to deliver a significant portion of instruction to its students via the Internet in a virtual or remote setting.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 14 - Virtual Schools › Section 7-1402 - Establishment of Virtual School

(a)    Subject to the approval of the Department, a county board may establish a virtual school.
(b)    A virtual school is subject to all applicable federal and State laws and regulations governing the operation of a public school.
(c)    A student who is eligible for enrollment in a public school in the State may enroll in a virtual school.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 14 - Virtual Schools › Section 7-1403 - Application for Enrollment

(a)    A virtual school shall provide each enrolled student:
(1)    Access to a sequential curriculum approved by the State Board that meets or exceeds the standards adopted by the county board in the county of the virtual school’s principal place of business;
(2)    The same length of time for learning opportunities per academic year that is required for public school students, unless the virtual school can show that a student has demonstrated mastery or completion of the subject area; and
(3)    Regular assessment in the core areas of instruction as required by regulations adopted by the State Board under § 7–1408 of this subtitle.
(b)    A curriculum adopted under subsection (a) of this section shall have an interactive program with significant online components.
(c)    Beginning in the 2022–2023 school year, a virtual school shall follow the quality online education standards.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 14 - Virtual Schools › Section 7-1404 - Requirements; Curriculum; Assessments

(a)    A virtual school shall provide to the parent or guardian of each enrolled student:
(1)    Instructional materials, including software; and
(2)    Information on the closest public facility that offers access to a computer, printer, and Internet connection.
(b)    A virtual school may not provide funds for the purchase of instructional programs or materials to a student or to a student’s parent or guardian.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 14 - Virtual Schools › Section 7-1407 - Principal Place of Business

A virtual school shall be evaluated each year by its sponsor based on the following criteria:
(1)    The extent to which the school demonstrates increases in student achievement according to county and State academic standards; and
(2)    The accountability and viability of the virtual school, as demonstrated by its academic, fiscal, and operational performance.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 15 - Maryland Safe to Learn Act › Section 7-1501 - Definitions

(a)    In this subtitle the following words have the meanings indicated.
(b)    “Advisory Board” means the School Safety Subcabinet Advisory Board.
(c)    (1)    “Behaviors of concern” means behaviors or threats that indicate a student may pose a risk of self–harm or harm to others.
(2)    “Behaviors of concern” includes:
(i)    Expressions of hopelessness;
(ii)    Known drug use;
(iii)    Suicidal gestures or statements; and
(iv)    Known gang activity.
(d)    “Center” means the Maryland Center for School Safety.
(e)    “Drill” means a formalized exercise by which school system personnel, staff, or students rehearse a school emergency plan.
(f)    “Fund” means the Safe Schools Fund.
(g)    “Local law enforcement agency” means:
(1)    A police department of a county or municipal corporation in the State; or
(2)    A sheriff’s office that provides a law enforcement function in a county or municipal corporation in the State.
(h)    “Safety evaluation” means a written assessment of the safety conditions in each public school, including ingress, egress, and access to areas of refuge for all students.
(i)    “School emergency plan” means a plan for each local school system and each public school within the school system that addresses mitigation of, preparedness for, response to, and recovery from emergencies, including:
(1)    Violent or traumatic events on school grounds during regular school hours or during school–sponsored activities; and
(2)    Events in the community that affect school operations.
(j)    “School resource officer” means:
(1)    A law enforcement officer as defined under § 3–101(e) of the Public Safety Article who has been assigned to a school in accordance with a memorandum of understanding between the chief of a law enforcement agency as defined under § 3–101(b) of the Public Safety Article and the local education agency; or
(2)    A Baltimore City school police officer, as defined in § 4–318 of this article.
(k)    “School security employee” means an individual, as defined in regulations adopted by the Subcabinet, who:
(1)    Is not a school resource officer; and
(2)    Is employed by a local school system to provide safety and security–related services at a public school.
(l)    “Subcabinet” means the School Safety Subcabinet.
(m)    “Wraparound services” means services provided to students, and their families as appropriate, including:
(1)    Mentoring;
(2)    Tutoring;
(3)    Child care services;
(4)    Housing referrals;
(5)    Transportation;
(6)    Crisis intervention;
(7)    Substance abuse prevention and treatment;
(8)    Legal aid;
(9)    Academic counseling; and
(10)    Career counseling.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 15 - Maryland Safe to Learn Act › Section 7-1505 - Child Care Centers -- Security Upgrades for Facilities at Risk of Hate Crimes or Attacks

(a)    In this section, “child care center” has the meaning stated in § 9.5–401 of this article.
(b)    The Center may make grants to schools and child care centers determined to be at risk of hate crimes or attacks as described under § 10–305 of the Criminal Law Article for security–related technology and security–related facility upgrades.
(c)    Any school or child care center determined to be at risk of hate crimes or attacks as described under § 10–305 of the Criminal Law Article by the Center may apply to the Center for a State grant to be applied toward the cost of a security–related project.
(d)    The allocation and use of State funds under this section are subject to the following:
(1)    State funds may be used only for funding additional security training needs, security personnel, security cameras, security–related technology, door–hardening, improved lighting, or other security–related facility upgrades; and
(2)    The amount of the State grant for any project shall be determined after consideration of all eligible applicants, the total of the unallocated State funds available at the time the application is received, and the priorities of area need as may be established by the Center.
(e)    Funding for the State grants under this section shall be as provided by the Governor in the annual State budget.
(f)    The Subcabinet may adopt regulations for receiving and considering applications and for disbursing funds to applicants.
2023 Maryland Statutes › Education › Division II - Elementary and Secondary Education › Title 7 - Public Schools › Subtitle 15 - Maryland Safe to Learn Act › Section 7-1506 - Funding

(a)    Beginning in fiscal year 2020 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Governor shall provide not less than $2,000,000, not including any appropriation provided for the Fund, in the annual State budget to carry out the ongoing operation of the Center.
(b)    The operation of the Center shall be supported by:
(1)    Funds as provided by the Governor in the annual State budget;
(2)    Grants or other assistance from local education agencies;
(3)    Federal grants; and
(4)    Any other grants or contributions from public or private entities received by the Center.