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Division of Educator Certification and Program Approval

​The Division of Educator Certification and Program Approval​ certifies teachers and other professional personnel; oversees the preparation of educator candidates; and approves the educational programs of nonpublic schools.


Key Programs, Services & Resources


Contact Information

Division of Educator Certification and Program Approval
Maryland State Department of Education
200 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
410-767-0385

Ruth Downs
Executive Associate

Sarah Spross
Assistant State Superintendent

Child Sexual Abuse and Sexual Misconduct Prevention (Md. Code, Educ., 6-113.2)


Md. Code, Educ., 6-113.2, effective July 1, 2019, applies to local boards of education, nonpublic schools and contracting agencies that contract with a county board education or nonpublic school to provide a service to a school or the students of a school.  The law establishes a process, including  requirements for specific documentation regarding whether an individual has ever been disciplined for allegations of “child sexual abuse” or “sexual misconduct,” for the hiring of public school and nonpublic school employees who have direct contact with minors.

A Manual for Teacher Educators, Teachers and Principals