A recent report from the Maryland State Department of Education reveals that more than 2,000 reportable offenses involving public school students were reported during the 2023-2024 academic year. These offenses include homicides, assaults, illegal firearm possession, car theft, and robberies. The top jurisdictions for these offenses were Baltimore County, Baltimore City, Howard County, Frederick County, and Dorchester County.
The issue of reportable offenses gained attention when a 17-year-old with a criminal record was arrested at Howard High School in connection with a homicide investigation. The Superintendent of Howard County Public School System expressed frustration at not being informed about the student’s criminal history prior to the incident.
In response to concerns about information sharing, the Maryland State Board of Education adopted emergency rule changes requiring school systems to share details of students with criminal records, specifically regarding reportable offenses, during transfers. The changes are temporary and will be reviewed after 180 days.
There is a communication gap regarding the education system within DJS incarceration settings known as the Juvenile Services Education Program (JSEP). While education records are shared with public schools, criminal history information is not currently included. Legislation may be needed to address this issue.
As the General Assembly convenes in Annapolis, the status of legislation to address these issues remains unclear. For news tips, contact reporter Mikenzie Frost at mbfrost@sbgtv.com.
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