Youth Development falls under the responsibility of Secondary Education, specifically under the Supervisor of College and Career Readiness. Youth development is a philosophy and approach to working with youth that recognizes that there are multiple domains of development that are all interconnected; all young people have strengths and abilities; and they are active agents in their own growth and development process.
Vision
All Maryland youth will become positive, productive citizens engaged in their community.
Mission
Provide resources and technical assistance to local school systems, communities (including non-profit and faith-based organizations), and students to promote academic achievement, and facilitate the engagement of school-aged learners in programs and activities that develop character, civic responsibility, independence, and productivity. Youth Development facilitates the growth of school-aged learners into active, caring citizens with the will and capacity to contribute positively to their local and global communities.
MSDE Contact Information
Vanessa Diggs, Director
Youth Development Branch
Maryland State Department of Education
200 West Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-767-0653
CHARACTER EDUCATION OFFICE
Paula R. McCoach, Specialist (410) 767-0047; e-mail: pmccoach@msde.state.md.us
STUDENT LEADERSHIP & OUTREACH
Lance Ledebur, Specialist (410) 767-0957; e-mail: lledebur@msde.state.md.us
STUDENT SERVICE LEARNING
Julie K. Ayers, Specialist (410) 767-0357; e-mail: jayers@msde.state.md.us
web: www.marylandpublicschools.org/msde/programs/servicelearning/
21st-CENTURY COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTERS
Kelly M. Rudd, After-School Programs Coordinator (410) 767-0561; e-mail: krudd@msde.state.md.us