This publication summarizes the status of Maryland public education in 2008 and considers upcoming challenges. Highlights of the report include: (1) Maryland classrooms continue to be comprised of minority-majority enrollment; (2) High school graduation rate tops 85 percent; (3) Scores on the Maryland School Assessment continue to rise; (4) Increased High School Assessment scores; (5) Second-largest gain nationally in high level scores on Advanced Placement exams; (6) 227 new National Board Certified teachers; (7) Full-day kindergarten; (8) Initiatives for adult education and Career/Technology Education programs at the high school level; and (9) Safety and Health Standards. Increased funding under the Bridge to Excellence Act has supported: (1) Recruiting and Retaining Qualified Educators; (2) Data Utilization and Analysis; (3) Research-based Programs; (4) Differentiated Instruction; (5) Graduation Enhancement; (6) Academic Intervention/Acceleration; and (7) Professional Development, This investment, combined with strong policy directives and consistent educational, will help ensure continued improvement in Maryland public schools.