Youth Development

  • What is Youth Development?

    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