The Office of Curriculum and Instructional Programs (OCIP) provides systemwide leadership for a unified approach to the development and implementation of rigorous curriculum, programs, assessments, instructional resources, and grading and reporting that prepare all students to learn without limits and to meet or exceed local, state, and federal assessment requirements.

OCIP is comprised of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, the Department of Instructional Programs, and the Department of School-based Curriculum Services, and includes the Northeast/Downcounty Consortia. OCIP identifies research-based scientific practices and program models to ensure students are engaged with the most rigorous content available. OCIP also plans, directs, develops, and coordinates extended day and extended year programs.

Major responsibilities of the office include:

• Revise the pre-K–12 curriculum to ensure alignment with Maryland standards and outcomes
• Create formative assessment tools to monitor student progress
• Develop reading intervention programs for identified students based on local and state assessments
• Provide direct support to schools to facilitate effective implementation of curriculum, assessments, and instructional programs
• Provide the leadership for the implementation of standards-based grading and reporting
• Support the design and delivery of professional development that ensures fidelity of curriculum implementation across all schools
• Refine instructional programs that meet the needs of diverse learners, including students with disabilities, those who are highly able, English language learners, and students who are at risk of underachievement because of poverty
• Maintain formal links with all central offices and departments to ensure consistent delivery of curriculum and instructional programs
• Facilitate communication with employee organizations, parents, community groups, and institutions of higher education regarding curriculum, instruction, and assessment