What's Inside

Today, the Maryland State Board of Education named Baltimore Polytechnic Institute a Maryland Blue Ribbon School! The award recognizes exemplary teaching and learning.

As a reminder, schools will be closed on Thursday, October 2. Stay on top of important dates this school year with the City Schools 2025–26 one-page calendar.

"City Forever," a short documentary created by the Student Media Team about Baltimore City College, was selected to premier at the New/Next Film Fest!

It’s time to contact your student’s homeroom/advisory teacher to kick off the online Student Learning Plan. This roadmap helps set academic goals, plan action steps and family resources, and support ongoing communication for a successful year. 

New this school year, middle school report cards will include the unweighted grade point average (GPA) to help students understand how their achievement now connects to future opportunities.

Family University workshops are created for families, by families! Register to join upcoming events; dinner and childcare are included.

• Tuesday, October 7: Building Pathways to Effective Communication Part 1

• Thursday, October 9: Addressing Mental Health Family-Led Workshop

• Tuesday, October 21: Building Pathways to Effective Communication Part 2

Join us from 5 - 8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 15, for hands-on math activities, skating, and fun. City Schools staff will provide school readiness resources and information. Register for Back-to-School Skate and Math Night.

Read the Emergency Drill Notice and the Emergency Drill Schedule to learn how we prepare students and staff for emergencies through regular safety drills. These drills enable calm, confident practice so that everyone can respond quickly and stay safe.

A child’s growth and enrichment doesn’t stop during summer break—nor does City Schools' commitment to the pillars articulated in Portrait of a Graduate. This past summer’s Fine Arts Camp at Wildwood Elementary/Middle School was a lively and joyous opportunity for creative and innovative thinkers to expand their minds and to learn and try new skills as part of their well-rounded (and year-round!) education. Meet a few of our student artists from across the city.

Hilton Elementary School begins this year with fresh energy and a new vision under the leadership of Principal Erica H. Gravette. A passionate advocate for instructional excellence, equity, and collaborative growth, she brings both experience and a clear leadership philosophy that prioritizes relationships and student success.

Principal Gravette's leadership style is based on this quote: “I believe great schools are built through strong relationships, high expectations, and a shared belief that every child can succeed." Read more about Principal Gravette's leadership style and goals.

School's Out Camps offer care for students aged five to 13 when school is not in session. Check out the Baltimore City Recreation and Parks website for more information and to register.

Register for the LLD Scholars Scholarship and Career Fair at Set The Captives Free Outreach Center from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Wednesday, October 15.

Calling 10th graders! This free, competitive opportunity offers access to Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) materials, curriculum, network, and mentorship. The program provides transportation, meals, and art supplies. Apply online by Thursday, November 20, for MICA’s Art & Design College Accelerator Program.