MDEStat Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the purpose of MDEStat?
   
   MDEStat’s purpose is to improve MDE’s effectiveness and efficiency through intensive systematic, data-driven oversight; and to ensure that MDE is making the best possible use of its resources.
    
2. Who’s in charge of MDEStat?
   
   Sue Battle-McDonald, MDEStat Director, is in charge of MDEStat under the guidance and direction of Secretary Wilson.
    
3. When and where are MDEStat meetings held?
   
   MDEStat meetings are held Monday mornings from 9:00 to 10:30 in the Stat Room.
    
4. Can I visit an MDEStat meeting, and if so who can I contact to arrange this?
   
   Limited visitor space is available. Contact the MDEStat coordinator 410-537-3464 or via email krussell@mde.state.md.us.
    
5. I hear there’s an MDEStat Panel who questions MDE managers at each MDEStat meeting. Who is on this panel and why? Why does the Secretary need a whole panel, instead of just asking the questions herself?
   
   The Panel is composed of MDE’s Secretary, Deputy and Assistant Secretary, Budget Director, Administrative Services Director, IT Director, Principal Counsel and the MDEStat Director. The Panel’s role is twofold: First, it brings a variety of perspectives to each MDEStat discussion. Second, many issues and problems can be addressed more quickly when key senior managers are in the room together.
    
6. How can we tell if it’s working? How and when will it be assessed?
   
   Please visit the MDEStat list of improvements the agency has made through the process; these will be updated quarterly. 
    
7. I have a serious concern about MDEStat. What should I do?
   
   Depending on the type of concern that you have, you may want to talk to your supervisor or the MDEStat Director. All suggestions are welcome.
    
8. I know about a real issue that those MDEStat people should be looking at – the real problem in my program is X. Is anyone interested in my opinion?
   
   Yes. While every issue might not be appropriate for MDEStat, suggestions should be sent to your manager or the MDEStat Director.
    
9. If you are scheduled to attend an MDEStat meeting…
   
   I’m scheduled to be “statted”; that is, questioned at an MDEStat meeting. How should I prepare? Why can’t I be told in advance what questions will be asked?
   
   No preparation is needed or expected. MDEStat only has a general idea of what questions you’ll be asked. It is perfectly acceptable to say “I don’t know, I’ll get back to you” at an MDEStat meeting if you are asked a question you can’t answer on the spot. MDEStat Panel members understand that no manager memorizes every detail of every program s/he manages.
    
10. What if I don’t have a good answer to a question asked at MDEStat? Does this reflect poorly on my administration or me?
    
    No. Again, it is perfectly acceptable to say “I don’t know” at an MDEStat meeting if you are asked a question you can’t answer. It is also perfectly acceptable to give answers that reflect weaknesses and problems in programs you manage – this is encouraged. Every program has weaknesses, even those run by excellent managers, the sooner they’re identified, the better.
     
11. I received an MDEStat follow-up memo with a question that doesn’t make sense or that reflects an incorrect understanding of our activities, programs, procedures, etc. What should I do?
    
    This happens occasionally. Contact the MDEStat Director. Such questions will be either modified or deleted from your list of follow-up assignments.
     

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