Maryland’s multi-billion dollar Kirwan plan, passed in 2021 to dramatically boost public education funding, is facing growing pains in its early implementation across the state. While hailed as historic legislation to create a “world-class” school system, some districts are having to make difficult cuts to staffing and programs just three years into the 10-year rollout.

Parents and students have protested proposed budget cuts in counties like Howard, where gifted and talented teacher positions, advanced math classes, and elementary orchestra programs are on the chopping block for next year. “If these cuts can happen in Howard County, they can happen anywhere,” said concerned parent Lisa Palmer.

Similar scenarios are playing out elsewhere, with Harford County mulling teacher layoffs to afford mandated pay raises and hire more staff for teacher planning periods. Baltimore County approved a budget eliminating 300 mainly vacant positions, which will lead to slightly larger class sizes in some grades.

The cuts have dismayed some who hoped the Kirwan plan’s $30 billion in additional education funding over 10 years, plus $4 billion annually after that, would immediately transform Maryland schools. David Williams of the Taxpayers Protection Alliance gave the Blueprint a “failing grade” so far from taxpayers’ and students’ perspectives.

However, Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson defended the early stage turbulence, saying “Any reform as it’s implemented over a 10-year period is going to have changes within the system.” He argued the long-term investment coupled with accountability measures will ultimately improve schools statewide.

Ferguson acknowledged districts face unique challenges requiring local adjustments, despite the legislation’s statewide scope. He urged patience, saying “These are the early stages” and improved student outcomes take time.

The COVID-19 pandemic potentially exacerbated issues by causing economic upheaval after the pre-pandemic Blueprint was written. Critics like Williams say it should have been updated for new budget realities.

As the reform’s costs escalate, taxpayers are closely watching whether the promised “world-class” system emerges from the Kirwan plan’s growing pains in its first few years.

Contributions to this article are from Fox45 Project Baltimore.