Office of Communications and Community Engagement

The mission of the Office of Communications and Community Engagement (OCCE) is to tell the story of MSDE’s initiatives and goal to provide high-quality education to every Maryland child. Through the effective use of communication tools and strategies, the Office keeps Maryland constituents and LEAs connected and engaged by providing timely, accurate, and relevant information.

Digital Services

Managing the MSDE website, branding, content creation and social media management are among the integrated services the Office provides as part of its responsibility to support the Department, the State Board of Education, and the State Superintendent of Schools.

Community Engagement

Serving as ambassadors for MSDE, the community engagement team facilitates dialogue with community members, builds partnerships, and hosts town hall meetings, round tables, listening sessions, and more. The team ensures the department connects with a wide range of stakeholders that represent the geographic, racial, ethnic, linguistic, age, and gender diversity of the state, especially new and underrepresented voices. 

Public Information and Media Relations

The Office relays information regarding department initiatives, news, and events to the public and serves as the primary point of contact for all media inquiries and Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA) requests.