Maryland Code, Education § 9.5-208

(1) Conduct a periodic statewide needs assessment concerning the quality and availability of early childhood education and development programs and services for children from birth to school entry, including:

(2) Identify opportunities for, and barriers to, collaboration and coordination among federally funded and State-funded child development, child care, and early childhood education programs;

(3) Assess the capacity and effectiveness of 2-year and 4-year public and private institutions of higher education in the State toward supporting the development of early childhood educators, including the extent to which the institutions have articulation agreements, professional development and career advancement plans, and practice or internships for students to spend time in a Head Start or prekindergarten program;

(4) Make recommendations:

(5) Hold public hearings and provide an opportunity for public comment on the activities described in items (1) through (4) of this subsection; and

(6) Perform any other duties that may be requested by the Governor.

(b)(1) On or before December 1, 2015, the Council shall submit to the Governor, the State Superintendent of Schools, and, in accordance with § 2-1257 of the State Government Article, the General Assembly, a statewide strategic report on the activities described in subsection (a)(1) through (4) of this section.

(2) After submission of the report required under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Council shall continue to meet periodically to review implementation of the report's recommendations and any changes in State and local needs after submission of the report.