Maryland State Board of Education elects Josh Michael as new president

The Maryland State Board of Education unanimously elected Josh Michael as its new president Tuesday.

Michael, the previous vice president, has been replaced by Monica Goldson, whom the 11-member board approved as vice president unanimously.

“Our work together has never been more clear — improve outcomes for children from all backgrounds in Maryland by elevating and transforming our public schools,” Michael said Tuesday. “Over the past year, this board has worked to build trust in public education by leading with transparency, accountability and partnership in service of improving outcomes for all children.”

The board sets standards and policy for public education, including how Maryland’s 24 school districts carry out the multibillion-dollar Blueprint for Maryland’s Future education reform plan, along with the Blueprint’s independent Accountability & Implementation Board. The board also hires the state superintendent and approves the state education department’s budget.

Clarence Crawford, the former president, will continue to serve on the board but has maxed out the number of years he can lead it. He nominated Michael, lauding his character, intelligence and energy.

Michael is the executive director of the Sherman Family Foundation, an education nonprofit in Baltimore. He noted in his acceptance speech that he is the parent of a public school student and a former middle school math teacher at Booker T. Washington Middle School and Commodore John Rodgers Elementary/Middle School in Baltimore.

The Baltimore resident said his experiences as a teacher in the city shaped his career and commitment to serve families with “humility and dignity.”

Michael previously worked at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County as the director of Baltimore school partnerships. He earned a Ph.D. from the UMBC School of Public Policy with a focus on mathematics achievement and education interventions for struggling students.

He said his term as president will focus on equity and restoring trust in public education.

Goldson led Prince George’s County Public Schools as CEO from 2019 to 2023. She is a former math teacher at Suitland High School in Prince George’s County and worked as deputy superintendent and chief operating officer before becoming the CEO.

She earned a Ph.D. in educational administration and policy from Howard University.

“I have seen firsthand the impact that dedicated educators and robust policies can have on our students’ lives,” Goldson said. “We will advocate for policies that promote equity, support our educators and leverage innovative solutions to address the challenges we have before us.”

Abhiram Gaddam, a Wicomico County public school student, started his one-year term on the board last month.

Members Susan Getty, Shawn Bartley and Holly Wilcox ended their terms June 30. Gov. Wes Moore has yet to appoint their replacements for four-year terms. Board members are unpaid but can get reimbursements for travel, mileage and some meals.

The board also honored Cheryl Bost, the president of the state teachers union, who retired from teaching after a 35-year career.