Jan. 28 Transition to Virtual Operations, Campus Closed

Bowie State University will be transitioning to virtual operations for all classes and office operations on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The campus will be closed to all non-essential personnel, and all campus activities are canceled. All buildings except residence halls will be closed. Essential personnel should report on time. This is due to the extended time required to clear the extensive snow and ice accumulation on campus. University crews are making every effort to resume campus operations, as a safe return to in-person learning and work remains our top priority. Only essential personnel and residential students are permitted access to the campus on Jan. 28. For more information, please visit BowieState.edu/weather.

BowieState.edu/weather

Policy Updates

 

PRAXIS Exam Recent Policy Changes

Maryland State Department of Education recent state policy has introduced alternative pathways for teacher certification, but these have not fully eliminated Praxis requirements for all graduates. 

  • Portfolio-based assessment: As of July 1, 2025, a portfolio-based assessment of teaching ability (like the edTPA or PPAT) will be required to qualify for an initial certificate.
  • Temporary certification: In response to teacher shortages, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has sometimes allowed temporary or provisional certificates for graduates with a 3.0 GPA or higher. However, obtaining full certification often still requires eventually meeting all testing standards. 

What to do if you have not passed the PRAXIS

If you are nearing graduation from a Maryland teacher education program without a passing Praxis score, consider these steps:

  • Contact your university's education department: The requirements for graduation can differ between institutions. Your academic advisor or program coordinator can clarify your school's specific policies.
  • Check the MSDE website: Review the latest testing and certification information directly from the Maryland State Department of Education to see if you qualify for any exemptions or alternative pathways.
  • Consider a temporary role: If you have graduated without certification, you may be eligible to work as a substitute teacher or secure another position while you work on passing your Praxis exams.