The Maryland State Department of Education has launched TEACH Maryland, a new statewide digital platform designed to recruit and support the next generation of educators. Created in partnership with the national nonprofit TEACH.org, the platform serves as a central resource for anyone considering a teaching career — from high school students exploring the profession to career changers looking for a new path.
The launch comes as Maryland continues to face a persistent teacher shortage, particularly in special education, STEM subjects, and certain regions of the state. According to state data, hundreds of teaching positions remain unfilled each year, affecting student learning and putting additional strain on existing staff. The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future has made teacher recruitment and retention a top priority, with significant investments in higher salaries, career ladders, and new pathways into the profession.
TEACH Maryland offers free, personalized resources to help aspiring educators navigate the process. Users can access step-by-step guides to teacher licensure, one-on-one guidance from current Maryland educators, test preparation support, financial aid and scholarship information, and direct connections to approved teacher preparation programs. The platform also includes articles, videos, and insights into daily life in the classroom.
“Research shows teacher quality is the most important in-school factor for student success,” said Maryland State Superintendent of Schools Carey Wright in a statement announcing the platform. “TEACH Maryland makes it easier for talented people from all backgrounds to explore teaching and find a path that fits their goals.”
The platform is part of a broader public awareness campaign that will run across digital and broadcast channels to elevate the teaching profession and inspire more people to consider education as a career. TEACH.org, a national leader in teacher recruitment, brings proven digital tools and expertise to the partnership.
For Southern Maryland schools in Charles, St. Mary’s, and Calvert counties, the new platform could help address local staffing challenges. These counties have growing student populations and have reported ongoing difficulties filling positions in high-need areas such as special education and secondary math and science. Local school systems have increasingly turned to alternative certification routes and out-of-state recruitment, but officials say a centralized, user-friendly digital tool could make a meaningful difference in attracting candidates who already live in or near the region.
The initiative also supports the state’s goal of building a more diverse teaching workforce that reflects the students it serves. TEACH Maryland is open to individuals from all backgrounds and provides targeted resources for those who may be considering teaching as a second career.
More information and free resources are available on the TEACH Maryland webpage. Maryland teacher preparation programs, school districts, and education organizations interested in partnering with the platform can find details at TEACH.org.
