Irvine Nature Center

Maryland's Environmental Literacy Graduation Requirement in Jeopardy

On January 3, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) published proposed language allowing students to satisfy the environmental literacy graduation requirement by simply completing the existing science and social studies requirements for graduation.

This provides no incentive to develop a comprehensive environmental literacy program and would effectively make the requirement irrelevant. MSDE has now opened a 30-day public comment period on this language and it's crucial that MSDE hears from as many constituents as possible.

How You Can Help

Email MSDE today: Before February 3, tell Maryland's State Board of Education to reject the proposed language and approve this alternative language:

Beginning with students entering high school in 2011-2012, all students must complete a locally designed high school program of environmental literacy as set forth in COMAR 13A.04.17 that is approved by the State Board of Education.

Direct your comments to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it – Science Coordinator, Director of Instruction, MSDE.

To send a letter, call or fax, use this contact information:
200 West Baltimore Street, Baltimore, MD 21201
Ph: 410-767-0329  F: 410-333-1146

Not sure what to say in your email? Try our template.

Please Make Your Voice Heard!

Governor O’Malley and thousands of Marylanders have shown their strong support for environmental literacy for all our students, yet we're in danger of losing the entire graduation requirement unless you help. This is our last and best chance to ensure an effective COMAR 13A.04.17. Please take action today!