SACC Hosts State of Wicomico County Schools, Highlighting Growth, Progress, and Future Needs

The Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual “State of Wicomico County Schools,” at the Wicomico Civic Center in Salisbury, Maryland. The luncheon was presented by First Shore Federal Savings and Loan Association, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield , Comcast, and Delmarva Power.

Superintendent Dr. Micah Stauffer addressed an audience of more than 100 attendees, expressing appreciation to the Chamber, the County Executive and Council, and the broader community for their continued support of Wicomico County Public Schools. His presentation focused on key developments and system-wide progress during his first four-year term.

Dr. Stauffer shared that when he assumed the role in 2022, the district was built on a strong foundation. Today, Wicomico County Public Schools encompasses approximately 2.2 million square feet of facilities across more than 600 acres. Since 2022, enrollment has grown by more than 500 students, with the district now serving families representing over 40 home languages. He also noted that increasing poverty levels have contributed to more complex student needs.

“The direction of the system aligns with the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future,” Dr. Stauffer said. He highlighted significant expansion in pre-kindergarten enrollment, which has doubled from approximately 400 students in 2022 to more than 800 in the current school year.

A major focus of the presentation was the need for a dedicated special education school on Maryland’s Lower Shore. Dr. Stauffer noted that while there are 79 special education schools statewide, none are in the region. As a result, many students requiring specialized services are educated in traditional classroom settings without access to the full range of supports they need. He added that, following several years of advocacy by community and local leaders, organizations such as Chimes School, Kennedy Krieger Institute, and The Benedictine School are now exploring the development of facilities on the Lower Shore.

Dr. Stauffer also shared several positive outcomes across the district, including the introduction of fifth-grade intramural sports, a high school graduation rate that has risen above the state average for the first time, and approximately 200 Career and Technical Education (CTE) students expected to graduate this year with industry-recognized credentials. In addition, dual enrollment partnerships with Salisbury University and Wor-Wic Community College continue to expand, offering students greater access to college-level coursework.

Dr. Stauffer concluded by noting that Wicomico County Public Schools are “on a very positive trajectory” as the district looks to the future.

The SACC wishes to thank Dr. Stauffer and Wicomico County Public Schools; Media Sponsor 47 ABC – WMDT; Sponsors Becker Morgan Group, Inc., Keller Brothers, Inc., and Salisbury University, and all who joined us in supporting the future of education in our community.