Education - Maryland STEM Program - Established

SB 673 establishes the Maryland STEM Program within the State Department of Education. It provides additional pay to public school teachers who teach STEM subjects (science, math, technology, or computer science) at nonpublic schools, while requiring nonpublic schools to apply for participation and report annual data. The program aims to address STEM workforce needs by incentivizing current teachers to gain qualifications, attracting new educators, and improving statewide STEM access. Local school systems can object to a teacher’s participation if conflicts arise with their public school duties or impact instruction quality, with objections requiring specific evidence and review. The bill directly affects public school teachers seeking supplemental income, nonpublic schools seeking to partner with them, and local school systems managing teacher assignments.