Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) leaders and Board of Education members met with state lawmakers for Legislative Day to discuss the district’s 2026–27 legislative priorities and opportunities for collaboration ahead of the upcoming Maryland General Assembly session.
The event introduced lawmakers to the district’s and Board’s legislative priorities, highlighted areas where state support is needed, and provided an opportunity for discussion about policies and investments that can strengthen student achievement and school operations.
Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph opened with a call for sustainable funding to support students with disabilities, emphasizing that academic improvement in reading and mathematics must include every student.
“Students with disabilities are included in every promise we have made about academic achievement,” Dr. Joseph said. “They need effective instruction and the specialized support that allows them to participate, make progress, and demonstrate what they know.”
Dr. Joseph highlighted the growing costs of special education services, including nonpublic placements and specialized transportation, and urged lawmakers to work with the district on a recurring revenue source dedicated to special education. He outlined approximately $12.7 million in annual funding priorities to expand autism programs, early childhood classrooms, specialized instructional support and elementary school individualized education program (IEP) facilitators.
Delegate Kym Taylor, District 23, brought remarks at the district’s annual Legislative Day on October 9 at Largo High School.
The program also featured an overview of the Board of Education’s legislative priorities from Board Chair Branndon Jackson, Vice Chair Dr. Phelton Moss,and Policy and Governance leader Aimee Olivo, along with remarks from Delegate Kym Taylor on education priorities and opportunities to work together.
District leaders presented priorities, proposed legislation, and specific asks to support initiatives focused on academic acceleration in mathematics, transportation, school infrastructure, and safety and security. Discussions highlighted opportunities for state investment and greater flexibility in how school systems use funding to address student needs.
The district’s 2026–27 legislative priorities include:
The district also shared school profiles and dashboard resources designed to give elected officials clearer information about academic performance, attendance, enrollment, school leadership and program offerings in the schools they represent.
As PGCPS advances its Forward by Design: Acceleration 2029 strategic plan, engagement with state lawmakers remains a critical part of aligning policy and resources with the needs of students, educators and school communities.
View the 2027 Legislative Platform
