A Sponsors-Only Panel with K-12 Education Leaders

As part of SMPS Maryland’s ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful value to our sponsors, we are pleased to host an exclusive, sponsors-only panel discussion featuring senior facilities leaders from several of Maryland’s largest public school systems.

This program offers sponsors direct insight into how K-12 owners are balancing sustainability goals, budget realities, security demands, and procurement strategies—and what they are looking for from A/E/C partners as they plan for the 2025–2026 fiscal cycle and beyond.

Speakers

Moderator

• Gretchen Wagner, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Associate Principal, GWWO Architects

Panelists

• Jeffrey Hagan, Director of Planning, Design, & Construction, Anne Arundel County Public Schools

• Leslie Lazzeri, Director, Office of Facilities Construction and Improvement, Baltimore County Public Schools

• Chris Morton, Supervisor, Facilities Management, Harford County Public Schools

• Andrea Swiatoca, Deputy Chief, Office of Facilities Management, Montgomery County Public Schools

Discussion Topics

Design & Educational Sufficiency

Focus: Aligning county identities with evolving state standards while modernizing aging facilities.

This discussion will explore how Maryland LEAs are responding to the 2026 facility guideline updates from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), addressing the challenge of upgrading schools that are well past their intended lifespan while still supporting contemporary pedagogy, neuro-inclusive learning environments, and flexible instructional spaces—often within constrained, mid-century building footprints.

Construction, Net-Zero Energy & Climate Solutions

Focus: Delivering fossil-fuel-free schools amid rising construction costs.

Panelists will share how counties are advancing Net-Zero Energy (NZE) school design in response to the Climate Solutions Now Act, balancing aggressive energy targets, funding mechanisms, and construction cost escalation. The conversation will touch on deep energy retrofits, electrification strategies, geothermal systems, and the growing role of sustainable materials—supported by incentives and guidance from the Maryland Energy Administration.

Security & Safety (Invisible Infrastructure)

Focus: Designing safe, welcoming schools under new state security guidance.

This segment will address how LEAs are integrating the latest MSDE security guidelines into school entrances and public areas—enhancing safety through vestibule design, controlled access, and technology while preserving the welcoming, community-oriented character emphasized in the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. Panelists will also discuss how counties are prioritizing investments between physical security upgrades and behavioral health or de-escalation spaces.

Procurement, Funding & Business Development

Focus: Navigating Maryland’s funding structures and standing out in a competitive market.

The panel will provide insight into the upcoming Built to Learn funding pipeline, the role of the Maryland Stadium Authority, and how counties are sequencing new construction versus systemic renovations. Panelists will discuss preferred delivery methods—including CMAR, Design-Build, and emerging P3 models—and offer perspective on what A/E/C teams can do during design to help projects remain compliant with the state-local cost-share framework administered by the Interagency Commission on School Construction (IAC). The discussion will conclude with common proposal and interview pitfalls firms should avoid when pursuing Maryland K-12 work.

Event Details

Location
JMT
40 Wight Avenue
Hunt Valley, MD 21030

Date
January 22, 2026

Schedule

• 8:30 – 9:00 AM | Breakfast & Networking

• 9:00 – 10:30 AM | Panel Discussion, followed by Closing Remarks & Q&A

Registration

This is a complimentary program exclusively for SMPS Maryland sponsors.

To register, please contact:

• Jason Dittrich – [email protected]

• Leika Wirt – [email protected]

Directions and Parking

Free, ample parking is available. 

Accommodations

SMPS is dedicated to ensuring that every individual feels welcome at all of our events. Please get in touch with us regarding any accommodations needed for this event. This venue complies with ADA accessibility standards.