 The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) provides leadership and services to twenty-four school systems and serves over 865,000 students. Environmental education is a mandated PK-12 program for public schools systems in the State of Maryland. The program in each school system is aligned with MSDE Environmental Education standards, indicators and objectives, that are infused in the science, health, social studies, English language arts, mathematics, and fine and performing arts standards. MSDE collaborates with many State agencies and non-formal education providers to identify and implement meaningful environmental education experiences for students.
For example, The Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Educators (MAEOE), a statewide professional association of educators, higher education faculty, and resource professionals, provides a certification program in environmental education for teachers and hosts an annual professional development conference. MAEOE also sponsors the Green Schools Program, which, upon successful completion of a comprehensive application procedure, awards a Green Schools flag to schools meeting requirements in curriculum and instruction, best management practices and community partnerships.
 Funding to support environmental education programs and activities in classrooms and schools, both at State and local levels, is provided through grants from the Chesapeake Bay Trust, Department of Natural Resources, EPA, and NOAA. |
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| Gary Hedges, Science Specialist |
Division of Instruction
Maryland State Department of Education |
| 200 West Baltimore Street |
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| Email: |
ghedges@msde.state.md.us |
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