Maryland enters interstate school psychologist compact to address workforce shortage

June 4, 2026 - 09:50

Maryland has become the ninth state to sign onto the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists, a move aimed at easing a persistent workforce shortage in schools across the region. The compact allows licensed school psychologists who meet uniform standards to practice in any participating state without having to obtain separate credentials for each one.

State education officials say the agreement will help districts fill vacancies faster, especially in rural and underserved areas where finding qualified mental health professionals has been a years-long struggle. Maryland currently reports a ratio of about one school psychologist for every 1,200 students, far below the recommended one-to-500 standard.

Under the compact, psychologists must hold a valid license in their home state and pass a background check. They can then provide services in other member states on a temporary or ongoing basis, depending on local rules. Supporters argue this flexibility will allow schools to hire from a larger pool of candidates and reduce wait times for student evaluations and counseling.

The compact took effect in Maryland immediately after the governor signed the legislation. Lawmakers in several other states are considering similar bills, which could expand the network further in the coming year.