Dr. Carey Wright State Superintendent | Maryland Department Of Education
Dr. Joshua Michael and Dr. Monica Goldson have been unanimously re-elected by the Maryland State Board of Education to serve as President and Vice President, respectively, for the 2025-2026 term. Both were appointed to the State Board in 2023 by Governor Wes Moore.
During their initial year in leadership, the State Board implemented several reforms focused on improving instruction, including updates to mathematics and literacy policies, changes to College and Career Readiness standards, and revisions to various state education regulations.
“I’m honored to continue serving as President of the State Board,” said Dr. Michael. “Fundamentally, we believe in the greatness of our children. Our goal is to build a school system that matches their potential. We’ve laid a strong foundation over the past year, and I look forward to continuing the work of improving public education in Maryland.”
“This critical moment in public education demands strong leadership with unwavering focus on student success,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools. “Throughout their professional lives and State Board service, Dr. Michael and Dr. Goldson have exemplified excellence in their commitment to our students, educators, school leaders and families. I look forward to our continued collaboration towards accelerating progress under the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future to ensure all students thrive.”
Dr. Michael brings experience as an educator, public school parent, and policy expert. He currently serves as Executive Director of the Sherman Family Foundation in Baltimore, which provides grants supporting children and families with an emphasis on early childhood and K-12 education. His career began as a middle school math teacher in Baltimore City; he has also held roles such as Director of School Partnerships at UMBC and was previously a Student Member of the State Board during 2005-2006.
He earned his bachelor’s degree and Ph.D. in Public Policy from UMBC and holds a master’s degree in School Leadership from Johns Hopkins University.
Dr. Goldson is CEO and President of Junior Achievement of Greater Washington and formerly served as CEO for Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), Maryland's second-largest school district. She holds degrees from Florida A&M University (Mathematics), Bowie State University (School Administration), and Howard University (Educational Administration). Additionally, she served on President Biden’s HBCU Advisory Panel.
Her two adult sons are both graduates of PGCPS.
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