BALTIMORE (October 19, 2026) - The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) announced a significant reduction in the state's teacher vacancy rate, which has decreased by 73.3 percent over the past four years. The drop in vacancies, from 2,145 during the 2022-23 school year to 572 in the current academic year, is attributed to extensive investments in public education by Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland General Assembly.
The decline in teacher vacancies is linked to a variety of initiatives aimed at enhancing recruitment and retention. These efforts include salary increases, the implementation of Grow-Your-Own Educators programs, and collaborative strategies involving state government, school systems, and labor partners. The focus on attracting and retaining educators has been a priority for the state, as officials seek to ensure that every classroom is staffed with qualified teachers.
Governor Moore emphasized the importance of having dedicated teachers in every classroom, stating, “I want Maryland to have the best schools in the world, and that means every classroom must have a dedicated teacher ready to engage and mentor the next generation.” The administration has worked to eliminate barriers to entering the teaching profession and is committed to sustaining the momentum in reducing vacancies.
As the state continues to address educator shortages, the MSDE's announcement highlights a promising trend for Maryland's public education system. The ongoing efforts to improve teacher recruitment and retention are essential for providing a high-quality education for students across the state.
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