HAGERSTOWN, MD (December 4, 2018) – The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has posted new Maryland Report Cards containing performance data for Maryland’s public schools, including Washington County Public Schools (WCPS). The data reflecting WCPS performance in the new Report Cards shows that 14 schools earned the highest ranking of five stars and 21 schools earned four stars, or 87.5 percent earning a four or five-star ranking. That ranks WCPS seventh in Maryland for the percentage of schools performing at the two highest levels. The data from the School Report Cards and other information about schools and school districts is accessible to the public at www.mdreportcard.org.

The Report Cards show how schools scored on Maryland’s new school accountability measures. Elementary and middle schools earned points for academic achievement, academic progress, the progress of students who are learning the English language and various other measures of school quality and student success. High schools earned points for academic achievement, graduation rate, the progress of students who are learning the English language, college and career readiness and various other measures of school quality and student success. The points schools earned determined their overall ratings, which range from one to five stars, and their percentile rankings, which compare schools to one another.  MSDE plans to issue the reports annually.

Dr. Boyd J. Michael, Superintendent of WCPS, commented, “Our goal is for all students and schools to achieve at their highest potential on both academic and non-academic measures. I am proud of our students and staff for the hard work and focus needed to achieve these results. The Maryland Report Cards show we have many specific areas of strength to celebrate in all our schools, but specific areas where improvement can be achieved.” Dr. Michael said he encourages parents and others to explore the new Maryland Report Card website.  

Melissa Williams, president of the Washington County Board of Education, echoed Dr. Michael’s thoughts. “I am pleased with and proud of WCPS’ school report card. I see it as a testament to the good things that are happening in Washington County schools. Through the efforts of our students and hardworking, dedicated staff, we have established a strong foundation in Maryland’s new school ranking system.”

Maryland introduced the new School Report Cards so students, parents, educators and community members could better understand how their schools are performing, just as report cards help parents understand how their children are doing.