The Maryland Board of Education requires the release of students’ criminal records

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (7News) — The Maryland State Board of Education this week unanimously approved a change to emergency rules that requires school systems to share criminal incidents involving students on or off school grounds.

The change applies to all Maryland students transferring between schools. The state commissioner believes the change does not go far enough.

Under the new rule, which goes into effect immediately this week, a local superintendent must immediately notify other Maryland schools if a direct student transfer occurs.

Previously, communication between different school districts was optional.

The principal is required to disclose a former student’s criminal information, even if charges are pending.

READ MORE | Education leaders in Maryland endorse controversial literacy policies

This decision comes in the wake of a 17-year-old student being convicted of attempted murder in Anne Arundel County and later arrested in Howard County for a separate murder. When he wore an ankle monitor to school, police found a ghost gun in his backpack.

A second high school student was also involved. Lawmakers raised concerns about miscommunications.

In Prince George’s County, Superintendent Millard House recently dealt with the arrests of 10 young people after nearly four dozen dangerous school threats were made on social media.

“Nothing is more important to us than the safety and well-being of our students and staff. Threats of any kind throughout our community will not be tolerated in our schools,” said Superintendent House.

“We work with local, state and even federal authorities to investigate each case. Most importantly, our students understand that these threats are not games or fun. They can result in serious disciplinary action and even criminal charges,” the superintendent added.

READ MORE | Man boards Prince George’s Co. school bus for Washington DC after argument in Maryland.

Carey Wright, Maryland’s state superintendent, wants the Board of Education to eventually go a step further and embrace inclusion

Students with criminal records or allegations against juveniles who come to Maryland schools from private programs or from abroad.

Wright, a Maryland native, was named state superintendent of schools in April. She previously served as State Superintendent of Education in Mississippi.

This emergency change is effective for the next 180 days, giving lawmakers time to make any changes before the policy becomes permanent.