This spring, the Maryland education community welcomed Carey Wright ’72, M.A ’76, Ed.D. ’94, as the new state superintendent of schools at the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). A three-time alumna of the University of Maryland College of Education who has held key education leadership positions in Maryland and Mississippi, Wright brings both deep experience and a personal connection to the role.
A Maryland native who attended public schools in Prince George’s County, Wright served as interim superintendent for six months before being appointed to a four-year term, effective July 1. Reflecting on her return to Maryland, she shared, “It feels good to give back to a state that gave me so much for K-12, post-secondary education and work. It’s like coming home.”
She added, “I'm excited about this opportunity, and I look forward to continuing my efforts to build relationships that will make a meaningful difference in the lives of children across the state.”
Wright’s career in education spans over 40 years. Most recently, she was CEO/president of Wright Outcomes, LLC, where she consulted with school districts, superintendents and educators on early literacy, professional development and strategic planning. For nine years, she served as state superintendent of education in Mississippi. In this capacity, she managed a substantial $2.5 billion budget and led key departments, including those focused on academics and technology. Her influence also extended nationally through roles on the Council of Chief State School Officers and the Chiefs for Change executive boards.
Her career is marked by a commitment to improving educational outcomes, particularly for historically marginalized students. “Every data point has a face,” Wright said. “You cannot address student achievement without understanding their individual needs, whether they are students with disabilities, multilingual learners, or African American or Latino students. We want every child to thrive and succeed.”
Wright’s earlier roles highlight her extensive background in education leadership and her deep-rooted connection to the state and region. She served as chief academic officer for the District of Columbia Public Schools, overseeing various academic units, including curriculum and instruction, youth engagement and school innovation. She was an associate superintendent for special education and student services in Montgomery County Public Schools, where she spearheaded initiatives for the district’s special education and alternative programs and advanced the professional development of teachers. She also held positions with Howard County Public Schools and Prince George’s County Public Schools.
Her vision for MSDE emphasizes research-based practices and data-driven decisions, aiming to elevate educational outcomes across the state.
“We need to use what we know works in our classrooms,” she explained. “If we can expand the use of expert coaches throughout the state, for example, we will be able to build capacity among all of our teachers and school leaders in areas where we need the most growth.”
As she steps into this pivotal role, Wright’s leadership promises to drive significant advancements in Maryland’s educational system, continuing her lifelong commitment to student success and educational excellence.