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Charter, Innovation and Transformation Schools

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Application Process for Opening a School

Charter Schools

We are not currently seeking transformation school applications. If you are interested in new school creation, please contact Tammie Knights at tnknights@bcps.k12.md.us.

Transformation Schools

The deadline for transformation applications for the 2010-2011 school year is 5:00 pm September 4, 2009. We will host a technical assistance meeting on August 20 from 1:30-3:30 at 200 E. North Ave, room 301. Please contact Tammie Nielsen (tjnielsen@bcps.k12.md.us) if you have questions about opening a transformation school.

Current Charter, Innovation, Transformation, New Schools Initiative Schools, and Contract Schools (Grade levels are for the 2009-2010 school year)

If you have specific questions about a school, you will get the best information by contacting the school directly. If you are currently in a charter, innovation, transformation, new schools initiative, or contract school and you have a question or concern, please contact the Parent Command Center at 443-984-2020 and they will connect you with the most appropriate office.

Charter Schools

Charter schools are public schools of choice. They are publicly funded and open to all students with no admission testing or screening. Each school has a charter, or performance contract, detailing its program, goals, and methods of assessment. Charter schools operate with increased autonomy in exchange for accountability. They are accountable for both academic results and fiscal practices to several groups: the authorizer that grants the charter, the parents who choose to send their children, and the public that funds them. Charter Schools are also governed by Maryland Charter Law. This includes conducting a lottery for enrollment and maintaining a waiting list.

How do I apply for a charter school?

Currently there is a process for applying to grades K-8 and a process for applying to 9th grade.

K-8 process: Each year, each charter school collects applications and conducts a random lottery if the number of applications exceeds the number of available spaces. Parents should consider applying for as many schools that interest them so that they have multiple opportunities to be selected in a lottery. The 2009 deadline for applications was February 25, 2009.* The deadline for 2010 will be February 24, 2010.

9th grade process: Baltimore City Schools conducts a High School Choice process each fall where 8th grade students rank the high schools they would like to attend. There is an annual High School Fair that showcases all of the options for rising 9th graders. All high schools, including charter, innovation, and transformation schools, utilize this process for their 9th grade students.

*You may also submit an application after the deadline. If a school still has spaces available, you will be offered a spot at the school. If a school has a wait list, you will be added to the waitlist. Wait lists are only valid for one school year. So if you do not get pulled off a waitlist in a calendar year, you must reapply the next year.

List of Charter Schools:

008-City Spring School (preK-8)
023-Wolfe Street Academy (preK-5)
025-Dr. Rayner Browne Academy (preK-8)
047-Hampstead Hill Academy (preK-8)
063-Rosemont (preK-8)
097-Collington Square School (preK-8)
262-Empowerment Academy (preK-8)
321-Midtown Academy (K-8)
323-The Crossroads School (6-8)
324-KIPP Ujima Academy (5-8)
325-ConneXions (6-12)
326-City Neighbors Charter (K-8)
327-Patterson Park (K-8)
328-Southwest Charter (K-5)
329-Inner Harbor East (Pre-K-7)
330-Northwood Appold Community Academy (K-5)
331-MATHS (Maryland Academy of Technology and Health Sciences) (6-11)
332-The Green School (K-5)
333-Independence School Local 1 (9-12)
334-Bluford Drew Jemison MST (6-8)
335-Baltimore International Academy (K-7)
336-Baltimore Montessori Public Charter School (preK-5)
337- Afya Public Charter School (6-7)
346-City Neighbors Hamilton (K-3)
347- KIPP Harmony (K)
423-Baltimore Freedom Academy (6-12)
432-Coppin Academy (9-12)

Innovation High Schools

Baltimore City Schools led a reform effort in 2001 to redesign, transform, and revitalize Baltimore’s neighborhood high schools. This reform created six new small, independent schools. Two of the six created schools converted to charter schools. Each Innovation High School is operated by a non-profit governing board with the authority to oversee the implementation of the school’s approved model. Innovation High Schools have no entrance criteria and admit students through a lottery.

List of Innovation High Schools:

#427-Academy for College and Career Exploration (ACCE) (9-12)

Principal: Ivor D. Mitchell
Location: 1300 W. 36th Street
Baltimore, MD 21211
410.396.7606 (office)
410.428.6750 (fax)

#428- Baltimore Talent Development (9-12)

Principal: Jeffrey Robinson
Location: 1500 Harlem Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21217
443.984.2744 (office)

#433-Renaissance (9-12)

Principal: Karl Perry
Location: 1301 McCulloh Street
Baltimore, MD 21217
443.984.3164 (office)

How do I apply for an innovation high school?

9th grade process: Baltimore City Schools conducts a High School Choice process each fall where 8th grade students rank the high schools they would like to attend. There is an annual High School Fair that showcases all of the options for rising 9th graders. All high schools, including charter, innovation, and transformation schools, utilize this process for their 9th grade students.

10th-12th grade process: Contact each school you are interested in attending to see if the school has available seats.

Transformation Schools

Transformation Schools are a direct response to changing secondary education in Baltimore. Six Transformation schools opened in 2008. Baltimore City Schools will open up to 24 Transformation Schools over the next four years. The schools will serve grades 6 through 12 and will be operated by experienced, independent education entities. Each school will have a specific theme and a unique curriculum and will either focus on college, career, or alternative programming. Transformation Schools have no entrance criteria and admit students through a lottery.

List of Transformation Schools:

338 Friendship Academy of Science & Technology (6-7, 9-10)
339 Friendship Academy of Engineering & Technology (6-7, 9-10)
341 REACH! Partnership (6,7 & 9, 10)
342 KASA (6,7 & 9,10)
343 CIVITAS (6,7 & 9,10)
348- Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women (6)
349 NACA Freedom and Democracy II (6,9)
364 Bluford Drew Jemison STEM Academy West (6)
365 Baltimore Liberation Diploma Plus High School (Ages 15-21)
366 Baltimore Antioch Diploma Plus High School (Ages 15-21)
367 Baltimore Community School (Ages 14-21)
422-New Era Academy (6 & 9-12)

How do I apply for a transformation school?

Currently there is a process for applying to grades K-8 and a process for applying to 9th grade.

6th-7th grade process: Each year, each transformation school collects applications and conducts a random lottery if the number of applications exceeds the number of available spaces. Parents should consider applying for as many schools that interest them so that they have multiple opportunities to be selected in a lottery.
The 2009 deadline for applications was February 25, 2009.* The deadline for 2010 will be February 24, 2010.

New School Initiative Schools

Before charter law was passed by the Maryland State Legislature, Baltimore City embarked on an innovative program to open small schools that would have autonomy in hiring, instructional focus and practice, and in finance with an increased level of accountability. While a majority of the schools started under this initiative have converted to charter status, there are still two schools that continue under the umbrella of the new schools initiative.

List of New School Initiatives:

015 The Stadium School (6 – 8)
322 New Song Academy (K – 8)

How do I apply for a new school initiative school?

Each year, The Stadium School collects applications and conducts a random lottery if the number of applications exceeds the number of available spaces. Parents should consider applying for as many schools that interest them so that they have multiple opportunities to be selected in a lottery.

Please contact New Song Academy for admission procedures.

Contract Schools

How do I apply for a contract school?

Edison schools currently manage one of our schools. Each school has a zone associated with the school so if you are interested in attending, please contact the school directly.

East Baltimore Community School is a project of East Baltimore Development Inc. They will also utilize a lottery process although preference can go to families that live in the East Baltimore Development Inc., footprint. Please contact the school directly for more information.

List of Contract Schools:

044 Montebello (preK-8)
368 East Baltimore Community School (K,1,5)

Description of Schools

#008 City Springs (preK-8)

Principal – Rhonda Richetta
100 South Caroline Street
Baltimore, MD 21231
410.396.9165 (office)
410.396.9113 (fax)
http://citysprings.baltimorecityschools.org

We believe that all students have talents and can learn through a variety of instructional experiences that will help them to develop their vocational, cultural and leisure pursuits. These experiences should enable students to be contributing members in a diverse society. They will be able to apply critical thinking skills and functional skills necessary to perform in an increasingly complex, technological society, to develop skills of leadership and fellowship, to develop an appreciation for the cultural differences among themselves and other members of society, and to develop their individual and collective talents.

Bell Schedule – 7:30 – 3:10 p.m.

#023 General Wolfe (PreK-5)

Principal - Christopher Gaither
245 S. Wolfe Street
Baltimore, MD 21231
410.396.9140 (Office)
410.396.8064 (Fax)

Wolfe Street Academy is a Pre-Kindergarten through Fifth grade conversion public charter school operated by Baltimore Curriculum Project. Serving more than 160 students from across the entire city, Wolfe Street Academy uses a researched based reading program with over 30 years of data marking its success. Wolfe Street Academy focuses on providing individualized support for all students. Students are guided through a coherent and cohesive curriculum that brings students from learning their letter sounds in Pre-Kindergarten to reading novels in Fifth grade. Using this program along with a Maryland State Department of Education aligned Mathematics program, a full after school program and the support of the Upper Fells Point community in which it is situated, the Wolfe Street community has met Adequate Yearly Progress for two consecutive years.
All members of Wolfe Street Academy strive for one expectation. "All members of the Wolfe Street Academy community will be respectful and responsible at all times." Through living this expectation every day community members have created the strong relationships that have lead to our success.
Bell Schedule: 7:20 - Breakfast; 7:50 - Morning Meeting; 8:00 - Classes Begin; 2:40 - Dismissal for all students.

#025 Dr. Rayner Browne (PreK – 8)

Principal - Lisa Parker
1000 N. Montford Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21205
410.396.9239 (Office)
410.396.9238 (Fax)
http://www.baltimorecp.org

Dr. Rayner Browne Academy is named after the late Dr. Grafton Rayner Browne, a member of the Baltimore Chirugical Society, the Monumental City Medical Society, and the American Medical Society. The school serves 213 African-American students in grades pre-kindergarten through seven.
Dr. Rayner Browne is a conversion public charter school operated by Baltimore Curriculum Project. The school is a zoned school serving students residing in the Madison/east end area of Baltimore City.

Vision

"The Dr. Rayner Browne learning community will ensure that all students are equipped with the necessary attitudes, skills and proficiencies to soar to higher levels of success in the 21st century"

Mission

"To accelerate student progress through effective implementation of the School Improvement Plan, focusing on quality instruction, maintaining an orderly learning environment, and sustaining a culture of excellence"

Schedule: 8:00 a.m. through 2:40 p.m.

#047 Hampstead Hill Academy (preK-8)

Principal – Jonathan Hornbeck
500 S. Linwood Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21224
410.396.9146 (office)
410.396.3637 (fax)

Hampstead Hill Academy is as Baltimore Curriculum Project charter school. Hampstead Hill began as a regular neighborhood public school that converted to charter while remaining in the existing facility. Hampstead Hill uses Direct Instruction's Accelerated Student Achievement Program, which involves the school-wide use of Direct Instruction for language arts and mathematics; and Core Knowledge in other content areas.

#063 Rosemont (preK – 8)

Principal – Dwayne Wheeler
2777 Presstman Street
Baltimore, MD 21216
410.396.0574 (office)
410.545.3298 (fax)

Rosemont Elementary/Middle School is operated by Coppin State University. As a part of the university's Education Corridor, Rosemont will serve students in the Rosemont/Coppin Height's neighborhood in grades Pre-Kindergarten through eighth. Students will then have the opportunity to attend the Coppin Academy, a charter high school also operated by Coppin State on the university's campus. Rosemont will become a charter school on July 1, 2006 and will add a seventh grade at the same time. The eighth grade will be added at the start of the 2007/2008 school year.

The underlying belief in everything we do is that all students have gifts and talents and given the proper support, all students can succeed. It is the school's mission to help develop these gifts and talents. To this end, Rosemont offers a variety of teaching and learning opportunities. Students attend regularly scheduled instruction in vocal music, physical education library and visual arts. Technology instruction is offered in two computer labs in addition to computer work stations in each classroom. An after-school academic program is held each school year starting in October which assists students to prepare for the Stanford 10 and Maryland School Assessments. Rosemont has partnerships with the US Fish and Wildlife Service, NASA (as a NASA Explorer School, one of only two schools in the state of Maryland) and has been named a Green School for our efforts in ecology and the environment. These partnerships offer our students opportunities to further their education at both school based programs and field trips to sites away from the building.

Rosemont is a uniform school with our elementary students wearing navy blue and white and our middle school students wearing navy blue and khaki. The school day runs from 8:00am to 2:40pm.More information can be obtained by calling the school or visiting our website at HTTP://ROSEMONT.COPPIN.EDU.

#097 Collington Square School (preK-8)

Principal – D'Andrea Chapman
1409 N. Collington Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21213
410.396.9198 (office)
410.396.8632 (fax)

Collington Square School is a Baltimore Curriculum Project charter school in East Baltimore that was a regular neighborhood public school that converted to charter. This school uses a challenging curriculum (combining Direct Instruction and Core Knowledge) emphasizing reading, writing, mathematics, geography, history, science, and world civilization.

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#262 Empowerment Academy (PreK - 8)

Principal – Carolyn Smith
851 Braddish Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21216
443.984.2381 (office)
410.362.2454 (fax)

School Profile

The Empowerment Academy is a bold and innovative charter school linked between the Empowerment Temple AME Church and Baltimore City School System.

School Vision

The vision of The Empowerment Academy is to place students, educators, and families directly at the center of learning.

Mission Statement

The Empowerment Academy is a school dedicated to character development while meeting the academic and cultural needs for students of the 21st century. The Empowerment Academy is a citywide charter school that has grades prek-8 by the 2009-2010 school year. Literacy through the Arts is our focus throughout the school as teachers integrate the arts into their curriculum. Students experience classes in visual arts, drama, vocal and instrumental music, dance, and computers.

Programs offered at The Empowerment Academy:

After School Academic and Cultural Enrichment Program (BOOST)
Field Trips
Family activities
SIT (School Improvement Team)
PTA
Parent Seminars and Workshops
50 Hours of Committed Volunteerism
Summer Academy in July
Artists in Residency Program
Arts program in Dance, Visual Arts, Vocal & Instrumental Music, Drama
Cultural Enrichment Assemblies
Chess Club

Our Partnerships:

The Empowerment Temple A.M.E. Church
Goucher College
Johns Hopkins University
Morgan State University
The Walters Art Gallery
The Baltimore Museum of Art
The Continentals Society Inc.
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc.
Allender Transportation
Enoch Pratt Library
Family League of Baltimore City Schools

#321 Midtown Academy (K - 8)

Principal – Kathleen O'Hanlon
1398 Mount Royal Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21217
410.225.3257 (office)
410.225.3514 (fax)
www.midtwonacademy.org

Midtown Academy is a 180-student K-8 Charter School serving the Reservior Hill and Bolton Hill neighborhoods and the City at large. It offers a variety of special enrichment programs (foreign language, tae kwan do, music, artistic enrichment – by way of example) in a collaborative team learning/teaching experience.

#323 The Crossroads School (6-8)

Principal – Marc Martin
802 South Caroline Street
Baltimore, MD 21231
410.685.0295 (office)
410.752.8433 (fax)
www.thecrossroadsschool.org

The Crossroads School is working with the nationally recognized organization Outward Bound in the creation of its instructional program. This curriculum model, known as Expeditionary Learning, is designed around long-term, in-depth investigations of a topic that engage students through authentic projects, fieldwork and service learning. The work students do within learning expeditions centers on rigorous academic achievement, critical thinking, essential skills and habits, personal development and high quality original work.

#324 KIPP Ujima Academy (5-8)

Principal – Shawn Toler
4701 Greenspring Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21209
410.545.3669 (office)
410.664.6865 (fax)
http://www.kippbaltimore.org/

We are a college preparatory middle school aiming to develop in students the academic skills, intellectual habits, and qualities of character necessary to succeed in rigorous high schools and colleges, self determined professions, and societal improvement. We fulfill this mission through a rigorous academic program based on KIPP's five pillars: High Expectations, More Time on Task, Choice and Commitment, Power to Lead, and Focus on Results. Our fifth and sixth grade students are due to school by 7:15 A.M. and are dismissed at 4:30 P.M. And our 7th and 8th grade students are due by 7:45 A.M. and are dismissed at 5:00 P.M.

#325 ConneXions (6 – 12)

Principal – Dana Polson/Rodney Powell
2801 N. Dukeland Street
Baltimore, MD 21216
443.984.1418 (office)
410.669.4418 (fax)

ConneXions is a public middle school located on the west side of Baltimore.

Academic classes at ConneXions are project-based and strongly oriented towards deep understanding rather than superficial coverage. Meaningful reading and writing, discussion and debate, and projects and simulations are preferred classroom activities. ConneXions' electives program includes African Drum and Dance, taught by members of the renowned Sankofa Dance Theater; Martial Arts; Spanish; and Studio Art.
ConneXions' school climate is enhanced by a strong advisory program and constant focus on character and community. ConneXions is a teacher-led school.

#326 City Neighbors Charter School (K-8)

Principal – Mike Chalupa
4301 Raspe Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21206
410.642.2052 (office)
410.325.CITY (2489) (fax)
www.cityneighbors.org

City Neighbors Charter School is a K-8 school rooted in the ideals of progressive, creative, and small school education. With arts integration and project-based learning at the core of our philosophy along with an emphasis on developing strong relationships between students, between teachers and students, and between parents and the school, we strive to help students develop a love of learning, a deeper awareness of themselves and their community, and the self-confidence and self-motivation to thrive.
Hallmarks of our program and philosophy include:

A play-based kindergarten which engages students in the world of school, acclimates them to the social world of school, and begins to develop a love of learning while building numeracy and literacy skills through play.
An arts program that not only include dedicated arts classes in visual arts, music, drama, and theater, but uses the arts in the classroom to make learning accessible and to help students express their learning and understanding.
A project approach to learning in which students and teachers develop guiding questions, spend a significant amount of time research and answering that question, and then find effective ways to present their learning. Through this approach, students dig deeper and develop critical thinking skills.
A focus on literacy and develop the love and appreciation of reading – starting from the first days of Kindergarten.
A middle school that includes an advisory program, daily small group tutoring, elective choices, Algebra in 8th grade, and a small teacher-student ratio.
An approach to education that is mindfully multicultural, inclusive, and embracing of the individuals that make up a classroom, a school, and a community.

#327 Patterson Park (K-8)

Principal – Chad Kramer
27 North Lakewood Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21224
410.558.1230 (office)
410.558.1003 (fax)
www.pppcs.org

Patterson Park Public Charter School is a school committed to developing well-educated, community-minded children by providing high-quality, community based education capitalizing on the diversity of nearby neighborhoods and the resources of Patterson Park. It is a local public school of choice that is open to all students and that does not charge tuition.

#328 Southwest Charter (K-5)

Principal – Keturah Nilsson
31 South Schroeder Street
Baltimore, MD 21223
443.984.3385 (office)
410.685.3492 (fax)
www.sbcschool.org

The mission of Southwest Baltimore Charter School (SBCS) is to acknowledge and to nurture the talents of all children in a culturally and socially diverse school community. A powerful combination of committed staff and family members will work together to help each child develop to his or her full potential, both academically and emotionally.

#329 Inner Harbor East (Pre-K-7)

Principal – Beverly Manigo
200 North Central Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21202
410.537.5890 (office)
410.537.5892 (fax)

Inner Harbor East Academy for Young Scholars, located on the campus of Sojourner-Douglass College, is a unique educational program that fosters Kindergarten to Grade 3 student achievement through an ecological model. This afro-centric community-based approach promotes standards-driven student learning in small classes while providing family support services including adult education, employment and counseling.

#330 Northwood Appold Community Academy (K-5)

Principal – Virginia Richardson
4417 Loch Raven Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21218
410.642.2031 (office)
410.323.1836 (fax)
www.nacacad.org

Northwood-Appold Community Academy (NACA) is a public charter school whose mission is to cultivate young people who are proficient relative to academic achievement and intellectual skills; advanced, constructive, and healthy relative to character development; empowered to make a life; equipped to make a living; and positioned to participate fully in freedom and democracy.

#331 MATHS High School (6-11)

Principal – Rebekah Ghosh
4701 Greenspring Avenue – 4th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21209
410.262-6072 (office)
410.396-0338 (fax)
www.mathsbaltimore.org
E-mail Address – mathsbaltimore@yahoo.com

MISSION STATEMENT:

The Mission of the Maryland Academy of Technology and Health Sciences (MATHS) is to provide an intellectually rigorous, personalized and supportive college-preparatory education for 6th-11th grade students of Baltimore City, with a focus on the biotechnology and health science fields.

Intellectually rigorous: We believe that all students can achieve when held to high standards. MATHS will emphasize high student achievement based on a standards-based curriculum, internally developed and standardized assessments and standards-aligned effective instruction.
Personalized: We believe that students learn most effectively in small learning environments. MATHS will maintain a low student to teacher ratio (~16:1), establish
Personalized student work plans (PWP) and assign an academic advisor to each student.
Supportive: We believe in a supportive educational environment that addresses the needs of all students. MATHS will continually seek to identify and address those students who need academic, emotional and developmental assistance through a variety of ways including additional instruction, counseling, advisory groups and a committed relationship with the student's family.
College Prep: MATHS aims for each one of its students to attend college and will build an environment that prepares students for entry and success at the college level.
Biotechnology and Health Sciences: In the 3rd and 4th years, MATHS will offer a specialized curriculum, internship and research opportunities, and a Senior Practicum in these fields to prepare students for success in college programs in the medical sciences.
Our Vision is that a MATHS education will allow our students to establish themselves academically and professionally, as well as cultivate them into contributors and leaders of their respective communities.

Educational Philosophy:

The educational philosophy of MATHS is based on our belief that all students, with proper instruction and skill development, can achieve at high levels when held to high standards in a supportive educational culture. We believe that systematic testing leads to improved student performance and that a high quality teaching staff should be developed and maintained to attain sustainable achievement. Our program is built on these principles, as well as on a partnership between the student, the parent/guardian and school staff to create a learning home environment.

Curricalr Focus:

The MATHS curriculum is aligned with MSDE and City Schools requirements and the MATHS mission. We will focus on preparing students for successful entry into post-secondary opportunities in the biotechnology and health sciences fields.

Partnerships:

Our partnerships are aligned with the MATHS mission and will serve to integrate and supplement students' academic lessons with research, work and service experience.

Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins Hospital
University of Maryland Biotechnology Institute
Career Associates Education, Inc.
Queen's Mobile Education
Historic East Baltimore Community Action Coalition
EBA engineering
Shangri-La Assisted Living
YMCA
Enoch Pratt
Welch Medical Library
Moveable Feast
Maryland College of Art

MATHS will operate between the hours of 7:45 a.m.-3:15 p.m., Monday through Friday.

#332 The Green School of Baltimore (K-5)

Principal - Katherine Primm
2800 Brendan Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21211
410.485.2102(office)
410-366-2154 (fax)
http://www.thegreenschoolofbaltimore.org/

The Green School of Baltimore is an elementary charter school founded by Baltimore City teachers. We opened in September 2006 in the neighborhood of Remington, with Kindergarten and grades 1 and 2. Each year we will add one grade, until we reach our K-5 capacity. We will move to a new building in the neighborhood of Belair-Edison for the 2008-2009 school year.
The Green School offers an innovative curriculum that integrates project-based learning with balanced literacy. We follow an educational approach called "using the Environment as an Integrating Context (EIC) for learning." EIC uses the school's surroundings and community as the context for reading, math, science, and social studies. This approach integrates learning from textbooks, problem-solving opportunities, and hands-on experiences.

Students will be involved in projects that align with Maryland State standards and require the students to apply skills learned in all subject areas. Projects include: creating rain gardens; planning and growing an edible, organic garden; developing a recycling program; and creating a tree nursery. For example, as second graders create rain gardens, they read diagrams, maps, and gardening books; they calculate prices for plants to purchase; and they measure and map sites.

We are committed to providing a rigorous educational program to meet the diverse needs of our students. Our teachers have experience with special education, inclusion, differentiation of instruction, and gifted and talented programs. Our mission is to motivate every student to participate fully and to achieve high standards.

#333 Independence School Local 1 (9 – 12)

Principal – Cranston Dize/Christopher French
1250 W. 36th Street
Baltimore, MD 21211
410.467.1090 (office)
410.467.1091 (fax)

Independence is a public charter high school that allows Baltimore city youth to learn through real life experiences. We are in the business of de-schooling children and reintroducing them to the environment in practical and intellectual ways.

Our mission is to cultivate practical and creative intellectuals who use the knowledge gained from smart conversations and debates, from daily reading, writing and math, and from a wide variety of challenging field experiences to reflect critically on themselves and their involvement in civic life.

The Program Features:

Experiential learning through internships and extended projects
Cultural experiences in and around the city and in the wilderness
A few primary adults, who develop trusting relationships with the students
A commitment of a four years for each advisory teacher working with one group of students
Individualized learning plans
Key performances (exhibitions) and active engagement instead of exams
A "Gateway" requirement after two years of the program before entering the third year
An emphasis on technology
An ethos of joint decision-making by staff
Strong local and citywide partnerships

Independence School Local 1 is a school for students willing to earn credits through the completion of a four year program with a framework based in experiential learning. By experiential, we mean that the fundamental emphasis of a student's course of study will be the exploration of critical questions as they related to a student's own life, history, family, and community. This will involve great amounts of tactile learning, visits to numerous locations inside and outside of our immediate community, and expeditions which push a student to learn survival skills in both the natural and unnatural world.

The curriculum is driven by students' locus of reality. A student at Independence School Local 1 will be honored in their individuality, but will be pushed to expand the sense of meaning in his/her life to include a larger community. We thrive on diversity; we even study our own diversity; so students should be willing to be engaged in a school where difference and uniqueness are celebrated.
Active participation in the unique aspects of the 'curriculum' is a requirement to continue with the program. This participation includes joining after school programs, engaging in new cultural experiences; volunteering for community service on evenings and weekends; going on week-long backpacking trips; taking all-day walking tours of the city; and being an enthusiastic member of seminars and workshops led by experts in many different fields.

#334 Bluford Drew Jemison MST (6 – 8)

Principal – TBD
1130 N. Caroline Street
Baltimore, MD 21223
410.642.2110 (office)
410.276.3096 (fax)
www.bdjacademy.org

#335 Baltimore International Academy (K - 7)

Principal – Elena Lokounia
3501 Taylor Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21236
410.426.3650 (office)
410.426.4688 (fax)
www.baltimoreinternationalacademy.org

Baltimore International Academy opened in the 2007-2008 school year as Baltimore City's First International Language Immersion school serving grades K-5. One grade will be added each school year until the Academy is fully operational as a K-8 school.

Parents of kindergarten and first grade students can choose to totally immerse their children in French, Mandarin Chinese and Russian as their language of instruction. Students in grades 2 to 5 follow the partial immersion model. The Rosetta Stone Program, which is an interactive, multi-media language-learning set of programs that replicate the environment in which learners naturally acquire new language is used to accelerate the language acquisition process.

French, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish are the official languages that are used by the United Nations for inter-governmental meetings and for document publication; Russian and Chinese are also on the U.S. government's list of critically needed language. Additionally, the Baltimore International Academy is applying to become certified as one of Maryland's first elementary school accredited as an "IB World School" under the prestigious International Baccalaureate Organization's Primary Years Program.

Research and local experience with other language immersion programs show that these programs develop students who show strong academic performance. The Maryland State Assessments results for students in immersion programs are amongst the highest in the state, with students of all races and socio-economic levels performing well above average. Structural aspects of immersion programs and the Rosetta Stone Program are particularly helpful for students with limited proficiency in English.

The BIA's Board of Trustees is well-endowed with skilled and dedicated professionals with expertise in all areas necessary for the establishment and oversight of a public charter school. Its Board members have designed a truly innovative, exciting and educationally rigorous program and they have the relevant experience in language immersion and international education, in educational administration and management, in accounting, in law and in community activism to ensure the successful launch of the Baltimore International Academy.

In short, the Baltimore International Academy aims to be a thriving school known for its culture of both inclusion and excellence and for its strong links to organizations and communities throughout Baltimore.

#336 Baltimore Montessori Public Charter School (preK-5)

Principal- Allison Shecter
1600 Guilford Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21202
410-528-5393
410-528-8126 (fax)
baltimoremontessoriinc.com

Baltimore Montessori Public Charter School (PCS) is the first public Montessori school in Baltimore. There are approximately 300 public Montessori schools in the U.S. Our school provides an authentic Montessori environment focused on respect for each child and joyful learning. All of our teachers are trained in the Montessori method. In 2009 - 2010, our school will serve about 200 students ages three through ten (5th grade). Our staff and families are committed to building a diverse and peaceful community that fosters communication, self-confidence, critical thinking and cooperation to empower the children to lead healthy and meaningful lives.

Guided by the century-old principles of Dr. Maria Montessori, which are consistently supported by current research, our mission is to prepare an environment that is responsive to each child's unique developmental needs, abilities and interests. Our 'whole-child approach' will foster respect for oneself, for others and for the environment. Our ultimate goal at Baltimore Montessori PCS is that - through mixed-age groupings, integrated curriculum, peace education, uninterrupted work periods, hands-on materials, art exploration and freedom within limits - all children will develop their full potential.

#337 Afya Public Charter School (6-7)

Principal- Will McKenna
2800 Brendan Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21213
410-485-2102 (Office)
410-485-0720 (Fax)

http://www.afyabaltimore.org/
Afya means health in Swahili. At Afya Public Charter School, promoting health will be the main thing we do. We believe that students in the middle grades need regular opportunities to think critically, be physically active, and interact constructively with peers. As they participate in this kind of work and play, our students will create and learn habits of mind and body that will lead to their intellectual, physical, social, and emotional health.

Our responsibility is to provide an effective learning environment in which Afya students can develop a strong sense of self, academic proficiency, and awareness of others. Afya graduates will be articulate, literate young people proud to engage in the complexities of today’s world. Afya graduates will be ready for the high school of their choice and ready to live healthy lives.

#339-Friendship Academy of Engineering & Technology (6,7 & 9,10)

Principal: Susan Wheeler
Location: 2500 E. Northern Parkway
Baltimore, MD, 21214
443.642.5616 (office)

#422-New Era Academy (6 & 9-12)

Principal: Paul Covington
Location: 2700 Seamon Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21225
443.984.2415 (office)

#346-City Neighbors Hamilton (K-3)

Principal: Candice Abd’al Rahim
Location: 5609 Sefton Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21214
410-642-2052

City Neighbors Hamilton is a K-3 school rooted in the ideals of progressive, creative, and small school education. With arts integration and project-based learning at the core of our philosophy along with an emphasis on developing strong relationships between students, between teachers and students, and between parents and the school, we strive to help students develop a love of learning, a deeper awareness of themselves and their community, and the self-confidence and self-motivation to thrive.
Hallmarks of our program and philosophy include:

A play-based kindergarten which engages students in the world of school, acclimates them to the social world of school, and begins to develop a love of learning while building numeracy and literacy skills through play.
An arts program that not only include dedicated arts classes in visual arts, music, drama, and theater, but uses the arts in the classroom to make learning accessible and to help students express their learning and understanding.
A project approach to learning in which students and teachers develop guiding questions, spend a significant amount of time research and answering that question, and then find effective ways to present their learning. Through this approach, students dig deeper and develop critical thinking skills.
A focus on literacy and develop the love and appreciation of reading – starting from the first days of Kindergarten.
An approach to education that is mindfully multicultural, inclusive, and embracing of the individuals that make up a classroom, a school, and a community.

#347-KIPP Harmony (K)

Principal: Natalia Walter
Location: 2810 Shirley Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21215
443-642-2027

#423 Baltimore Freedom Academy (6 – 12)

High School Principal-TBD
Middle School Principal- Pam Caple
1601 E. Lombard Street
Baltimore, MD 21231
443.984.2737 (office)
410.675.5205 (fax)
www.baltimorefreedomacademy.org

The aim of the Baltimore Freedom Academy is to provide an environment which cultivates young adults who will emerge dedicated to serving their families and their communities and prepared to be informed problem-solvers and effective advocates for positive social change. BFA believes that the education of our students is a collaborative effort among faculty, administrators, community members, students and their families. Personal responsibility of each party is both expected and respected.
School begins at 8:45 a.m. and ends @ 4:00 p.m.

#432 Coppin Academy (9 – 12)

Principal – Ronnel Carey
2500 W. North Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21217
410.951.2600 (office)
410.951.2610 (fax)
www.coppin.edu/coppin_academy

Coppin Academy is the new and innovative high school in Baltimore City founded on the premise that all Academy students will further their education at professional institutions of higher learning upon graduation. Affiliated with and situated on the campus of Coppin State University, the Academy opened in July of 2005 and will serve a population of 400 students in grades nine through twelve when it reaches capacity - September, 2009. In July of 2005, the first student cohort of 100 selected ninth graders participated in a three week Academy Prep Summer Orientation Program prior to beginning their ninth grade program in the September. Using the latest student achievement data, Academy staff, students, and parents acknowledged student strengths, identified student challenges, and worked as a team to complete Personal Education Plans that guide each student in reaching individual educational goals. This effective approach will be replicated with future cohorts. The school day begins at 8:00 am to 3:20 pm.

#338 Friendship Academy of Science & Technology (6,7 & 9,10)

Principal-Ian Roberts
801 S. Highland Avenue
Baltimore,MD 21224
443.642.3182 (Office)
www.friendshipschools.org

In Their Own Words:
Friendship Academy of Science and Technology (FAST) helps students become masterful at acquiring knowledge and putting it to use. FAST teaches the most current technologies through a standards-driven, project-based curriculum that gives students a sense of confidence and leads them to success and higher education. FAST is one of approximately 150 early college programs nationwide, allowing students to graduate from high school with up to 60 college credits or an associate degree.

Course and Program Highlights: Extended school hours. Project Lead the Way biomedical sciences program, college preparatory program. Focus on science, technology, engineering and math.

Academic Services: After-school academic enrichment, Saturday school, tutorial program facilitated by UMBC and Coppin State University students.

Extracurricular Activities: Chess, Debate, Martial Arts, Arts, Basketball, Volleyball.

Partnerships: University of Maryland, UMBC, Gallery Church Baltimore, Johns Hopkins University Bayview Medical Center, Southeast Youth Academy.

#341 REACH! Partnership (6,7 &9, 10)
Principal-Michael Frederick
6820 Fait Avenue
Baltimore,MD 21224
443.642.2291 (Office)
www.reachpartnership.com

In Their Own Words:
“Davon has shown new interest and excitement about school since attending REACH! Before REACH! he was what they called an under-achiever. It’s such a joy to see a spark in his eye and a smile at the mention of school.” —M.L., 9th-grade parent. “REACH! is like family. Kia feels safe, and so do I knowing that she is in an orderly environment with people who care.” —S. T., 6th grade parent. “I’m glad I came to REACH! because we do a lot of fun things. Every day is exciting.” —J.T., 6th grade. “I came to REACH! because my mother is a nurse, and I want to be a nurse.” —M.M, 9th grade. “The work is hard, but they give us a lot of help. In addition to the teachers, we have our Advocate and the tutors.” —C. G., 9th grade.

Course and Program Highlights: Health and construction industries programs. Career specialties include electricity, medical technology, pharmacy, plumbing, pathology, heating and ventilation, nursing, and construction management. Arts and performance program through Young Audiences of Maryland.

Academic Services: Extended academic day and advocates (trained and dedicated AmeriCorps volunteers) who mentor and tutor students daily.

Extracurricular Activities: Golf, African Drumming, Dance, Tennis and Soccer.

Partnerships: Civic Works Inc. (operator of school), Johns Hopkins Medical Systems, Johnson Controls Inc., Associated Builders and Contractors of Maryland, Stevenson University, Historic East Baltimore Community Action Coalition.

#342 KASA (6,7 & 9,10)
Principal-Tony Edwards
201 Northbend Road
Baltimore,MD 21229
443.642.2670 (Office)
www.replications.org/kappa_md.htm

In Their Own Words:
Knowledge Achievement Success Academy provides a rigorous academic curriculum that teaches scholars to analyze, synthesize, evaluate and apply knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to real-world experiences. KASA equips scholars with the skills needed to succeed in high school, college and beyond. Students have said the following about KASA: “I came to this school because I want to go to college.” “We don’t have teachers; we have professors!”

Course and Program Highlights: Music and foreign language. Extended day for 6th- and 9th - graders for developing math and literacy skills. Service learning and foreign travel.

Academic Services: Shriver Center at UMBC, International Baccalaureate (application), Kappa Alpha Si young male leadership and mentoring program, and Queendom, a young female leadership and mentoring program.

Extracurricular Activities: 6th-grade football and girls volleyball, basketball for all, track and field, and others to come.

Partnerships: Kappa Alpha Si young male leadership and mentoring program, Shriver Center at UMBC.

#343 CIVITAS (6,7&9,10)
Principal-Matt Wernsdoerfer
4701 Greenspring Avenue
Baltimore.MD 21209
443.642.2938 (Office)

In Their Own Words:
The Baltimore Civitas School is dedicated to graduating students prepared for college and careers in public service. Public service can mean being the mayor, being a community organizer, a mural painter or a volunteer at a homeless shelter. Students at Civitas will meet high academic standards and be active members of their communities, from their families to the world.

Course and Program Highlights: Civitas’ theme is public service, so we work hard to provide experiences in that arena. Students take regular classes, but they will be rooted in public service. For example, a math class might learn to read graphs by looking at statistics and arguing about whether blue lights on corners actually limit crime.

Academic Services: Civitas is organized around teams, with many resources available to students in need. We have flexible schedules to allow small-group support for both advanced and challenged students; curriculum from Johns Hopkins for students struggling in math or reading; and many structures in place to ensure that no student slips through the cracks.

Extracurricular Activities: Project Citizen, Debate, Student Government, Student Court, Choir, Drumming, Basketball, Chess, Yoga.

#348- Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women (6)

Principal: Lorna K. Hanley
Address: 4600 Falls Rd.
Baltimore, MD. 21209
Web address: www.blsyw.org/
E-mail address: lhanley@bcps.k12.md.us
Telephone: 410-642-2048
Fax: 410-338-2684

In Their Own Wordse-
The Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women (BLSYW) offers girls an awesome opportunity to emerge in a challenging, supportive and safe environment. BLSYW is a college preparatory school that engages students in learning through a strong school culture and innovative teaching practices that nurture the development of the whole young woman—emotionally, physically and academically. BLSYW cultivates strong habits of mind and a sense of community responsibility. The young women of BLSYW demonstrate leadership at every level—Self, School and Society. The culture of BLSYW celebrates the leader within every young woman and strongly encourages every student to take on leadership roles both in school and in their communities. The Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women is looking for 6th and 7th graders, who accept the school offerings of all girls, advisory, uniforms, college prep, and leadership development and show a particular interest in attending BLSYW. We do not have a minimum test score requirement.

Course and Program Highlights: BLSYW guides its students to achieve their greatest potential through an intensive middle school experience that prepares students for our rigorous high school academic program and enrollment in college. In addition to our focus on academic rigor, BLSYW strives to work with families to instill in our students a sense of community responsibility and ethical behaviors that will make them the leaders of their generation.

1. As a single-gender school BLSYW will provide its students with an education free from the gender stereotypes of society; the school will create an environment where differences in learning styles are valued and not ignored.

2. As a small school BLSYW will provide individual attention to students. The school will eventually grow to serve no more than 560 students in grades 6-12. Class size will range from 20-25 students enabling teachers to develop relationships with students and meet their academic and developmental needs.

3. Key to the success of BLSYW is college preparation. College preparation begins in the sixth grade with visits to college campuses and culminates with school selection and financial aid negotiation in senior year. BLSYW will have a full-time college counselor to prepare students and their families for college admission.

Academic Services: BLSYW offers a relevant and meaningful curriculum that develops powerful dispositions, habits of mind, and models for problem solving and responsible decision making, as well as preparing students for success in college. The BLSYW Curriculum focuses on Math, Science and Technology, fields in which women are underrepresented. Our highly qualified staff is committed to guiding the students in discovering their inner mathematician and scientist, and helping them to apply this perspective to the development of our society in the twenty-first century. Our unique advisory program offers on-going guidance in navigating changing friendships, making healthy choices, and cultivating self-awareness and independence.

Extracurricular Activities: BLSYW offers a developmentally appropriate program geared to the unique realities of adolescent girls in all domains - cognitive, emotional, social, and physical. We provide many outlets beyond the classroom for students to develop new interests and to stretch themselves in the arts, athletics, clubs, and other activities. Each grade in the Middle School takes several class trips during the school year to augment our students' learning in the classroom. Clubs vary from year to year depending on attendance and leadership. It is the goal of BLSYW to continuously add to our menu of after school activities. Extracurricular activities for the 2009-2010 include;
GEMS (Girls in Engineering, Math and Science), Debate Club, Math Team, Tech Team, Leadership Events, Ambassadors’ Guild, Honor Society, Leaders of the Month, Student Council., Girls and Golf, BLSYW Dance Team , BLSYW Chorale, “SHERO” Magazine Club and The BLSYW Body Love Fitness Club.

Partnerships: The Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women will be managed by City Schools in partnership with the Foundation for BLSYW. The Baltimore Leadership School Foundation has reached out to a number of community partners to support the BLSYW. We believe these partners are critical to the long term success of the school. Current 2009-2010 partners include; University of Maryland College Park, Department of Curriculum and Instruction, Maryland Institute College of Art; Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins; The Baltimore Chapter of The National Coalition of Black Women and Morgan State University.

#349 NACA Freedom and Democracy II (6,9)

Principal: Mary McCrea
Address: 2500 E. Northern Parkway
Baltimore, Md. 21214
Website: www.nacacad.org
443-642-2031

In Their Own Words:
The Northwood-Appold Community Academy (NACA) Freedom & Democracy School II is committed to "preparing students to make a living and a life," so that they "navigate the life journey effectively and with integrity." NACA's mission is to cultivate young people who are proficient relative to academic achievement and intellectual skills. NACA’s rigorous, innovative, unique Freedom and Democracy (F&D) Curriculum is a pivotal part of the school. It involves active, interlocking partnerships between parents, students, teachers, administrators, civic structures, social leaders, business leaders and political leaders.

Course and Program Highlights: F&D is a curriculum characterized by academic rigor, advanced character development, and preparing students to "make a living and a life." The curriculum is aligned with and exceeds state and federal standards.

Academic Services: HSA Recovery Program, Summer Bridge Program, Twilight School, Credit Recovery Program, Grade-level Advisory Program, Wilson Reading Program, extended-day arts program.

Extracurricular Activities: Basketball, Chess Club, Debate Team, Poetry Club, PTSA, Student Government Association.

Partnerships: Associated Black Charities, Morgan State University, Family Tree, Sankofa Dance and Drum Theater, Boy Scouts of America, Enoch Pratt Free Library Northwood Branch.

#364 Bluford Drew Jemison STEM Academy West (6)

Principal: Monica Dailey
Location: 1300 Herkimer Street.
Baltimore, Md. 21223
Website: www.bdjacademy.org
Telephone: 443-642-2110

In Their Own Words:
Bluford Drew Jemison is an all-male college preparatory STEM Academy focusing on Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering. The school has an extended school year of up to 200 instructional days. The additional time has every child involved in an extended school enrichment program, such as a civics club, chess club, foreign language club, tutoring and coach classes, and sports activity—to name a few. Students currently most in need of an academic and nurturing environment will have access to practices in teaching and learning, melded with the wrap-around services for this population.

Course and Program Highlights: Course offerings at each grade level are weighted in the areas of mathematics and science. All students are provided fine arts, art history and design. Instrumental and vocal music is provided throughout each grade level. Introduction to engineering, Advanced placement chemistry and physics is available as well as computer programming. Science technology engineering, math focus, with course tracks pertaining to same.

Academic Services: Mentoring by UMBC Meyerhoff Scholars, Morgan State and Coppin State Universities students. Study hall and coach class daily. Summer internships at the U.S. Army Research Lab, the NASA Space Center and NSA/MD State University Camp.

Extracurricular Activities: Science Club, MESA, Chess, Choir, Band, Debate, Financial Literacy, Drama, Poetry, Robotics, Rocketry, Martial Arts, Soccer, Football, Cross-Country, Basketball, Swimming, Lacrosse, Golf, Tennis, Track and Field and Baseball.

Partnerships: U.S. Army Research Lab, NASA, UMBC, Morgan State University, Coppin State University, MD State Amateur Athletic Union, the local Carpenters Union and Black Professional Men.

#365 Baltimore Liberation Diploma Plus High School (Ages 15-21)

Principal: Teresa Cooper-Hall
Location: 2801 N Dukeland Street
Baltimore, Md. 21216
443-642-2055
Website: www.commcorp.org/diplomaplus/index.html

In Their Own Words:
Through student-centered learning, a supportive school culture and pathways to the future, Diploma Plus transforms its students’ education so they will achieve success in high school, college, and careers. In the words of DP students around the country: “The education here is great … teachers care and push you to be the best you can be.” (New York) “Our school has projects, internships, advisories, lots of chances to show what you know. This is true learning, instead of sitting in a classroom hearing about it.” (Boston) “DP is a school for those, like myself, who want a shot at success.” (Sacramento, Calif.)

Course and Program Highlights: B-DP follows a performance-based model. Students learn through project-based and other hands-on methods and then demonstrate their learning through products, performances, and portfolios. B-DP has three phases: Foundation Phase with an emphasis on developing reading, writing and math skills; Presentation Phase covers a sequence of high school courses; and Plus Phase includes college, career and community service experiences.

Academic Services: One on one remediation and personal tutoring assistance, and college and career experiences and mentors.

Extracurricular Activities: Student Council, Advisory Leadership, School Newspaper, Community Service Group, School Leadership Team, and other student-organized groups/ teams. Students can also work with faculty to organize other extracurricular activities based on interests.

Partnerships: B-DP has community-based partnerships to support student success, business partnerships to provide career exposure and internships, and college partnerships for college exploration and application assistance, as well as the opportunity to take a college course while still in high school.

#366 Baltimore Antioch Diploma Plus High School (Ages 15-21)

Principal: Danielle Green
Location: 2555 Harford Rd.
Baltimore, Md. 21218
Telephone: 443-642-2021
Website: www.commcorp.org/diplomaplus/index.html

In Their Own Words:
Through student-centered learning, a supportive school culture and pathways to the future, Diploma Plus transforms its students’ education so they will achieve success in high school, college, and careers. In the words of DP students around the country: “The education here is great … teachers care and push you to be the best you can be.” (New York) “Our school has projects, internships, advisories, lots of chances to show what you know. This is true learning, instead of sitting in a classroom hearing about it.” (Boston) “DP is a school for those, like myself, who want a shot at success.” (Sacramento, Calif.)

#367 Baltimore Community School (Ages 14-21)

Principal: Brian Jones
Location: 6820 Fait Ave.
Baltimore, Md. 21224
Website: www.commcorp.org/diplomaplus/index.html
443-642-2035

Are you Behind? Are you in your right grade? Do you want a chance to catch up and graduate on time? If so, Baltimore Community High School is for you.

Baltimore Community High School #367 (Baltimore CHS) is a Baltimore City Public Transformation School opening in September of 2009 for young people ages 14-21, who have dropped out of a Baltimore City Public School or are likely to drop out due to insufficient progress. Baltimore CHS is divided into two schools, a Transformation School for middle school students and a Accelerated School for high school students.

The Transformation school component of Baltimore CHS will operate on an 11-month academic calendar and target students between the ages of 14-16. The classroom experience will be project-based in a small learning classroom environment. Course offering will include but not limited to Intensive Math, Intensive Reading, Intensive Language Arts, Intensive Science, Intensive Social Studies and Study/Note-taking skills courses. The goal of the Transformation school is to increase Reading and Math levels of each student and to then transfer students into the Accelerated school. The total Transformation population shall not exceed 100 students.

The Accelerated school component of Baltimore CHS will operate on a 22-month academic calendar and target students between the ages of 16-21. All courses required by Baltimore City Public School system for graduation will be offered to students. Students can earn 3 credits towards graduation in the accelerated 8-week module system. The total Accelerated population shall not exceed 500 students.

Course and Program Highlights: BCHS is a highly structured school with a strict Code of Conduct that allows for a safe and violent free learning environment. Students will be expected to follow all the rules of the school and will be held accountable for their individual learning. Students will receive both emotional and educational support as they progress throughout the year. Course offered will include but not limited to Intensive Math, Intensive Reading, Intensive Language Arts, Intensive Science, Intensive Social Studies and Study/Note-taking skills courses.

#015 The Stadium School (6 – 8)

Principal – Ron Shelly
1300 Gorsuch Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21218
443.984.2682 (office)
410.366.2672 (fax)
www.stadiumschool.com

Statement of Mission and Philosophy

The mission of The Stadium School is to spark in students of diverse backgrounds and talents a passion for learning, accomplishment, and contribution to their communities.
The philosophy of The Stadium School centers around three essential partners in the educational process: the student (child), the parent(s)/guardian(s), and the teacher. These partners must be thoroughly empowered to ensure effective learning and to build a successful learning community. Each partner must hear (listen) to the voice of the other, e.g., I want to be successful, but also want school to be fun and engaging.I want my child to take tests, e.g., MSA, High School Assessment, and CTBS/Terra Nova and pass them.I want to feel supported for my effort to teach.

High quality and inspiring results are achieved through basic skills, using alternative programs such as the Algebra Project, as well as City Schools curriculum. The Stadium School staff members participate in Summer Curriculum Writing and staff development. As much as possible, students learn by working on projects that have real results such as: creating works of art, writing and publishing books and essays, creating small businesses or entrepreneurships, staging plays, presenting exhibitions, and researching social, historical and scientific problems to find solutions for real problems. In addition, students’ basic mathematic and reading skills are assessed on an ongoing basis to assure preparation for mandated standardized tests.

Students progress through the school by meeting educational outcomes, scoring at proficient levels on assessments, and maintaining a portfolio of their best work products. The students’ exhibit these portfolios to a panel of teachers, parents, and community members. The students’ exhibitions must prove that they have met the required academic outcomes. Students’ grades are given following teacher constructed rubrics, which outline the criteria for outcomes, based upon the MD Voluntary State Standards. Each students meets daily with a teacher advisor.

Students in grades five through eight are grouped according to grade levels. Occasionally, students work in project classes regardless of grade. Teachers plan interdisciplinary lessons by meeting weekly in curriculum meetings.

#322 New Song Academy (K – 8)

Principal – Susan Tibbels
1530 Presstman Street
Baltimore, MD 21217
410.728.2091 (office)
410.728.0829 (fax)
www.newsonglc.org

New Song Academy is a small public school located in the Sandtown-Winchester neighborhood. We serve students from the surrounding neighborhood only. We have aprox. 125 students in our k-8 setting. We are part of the New Schools Initiative - a precursor to the Charter School movement in Maryland and as such we enjoy a certain amount of autonomy from the System demands. Here is what makes our school different:

While we are in session for the same 190 days that all other Maryland schools are (180- with students and 10 for professional development), we run a "year round" calendar consisting of 6, 5 - 7 week sessions with a 1 or 2 week break between each session (1 professional development day is scheduled during each "intersession").
We have an extended day for the first 5 sessions. Our clock schedule runs from 8:40 until 5:00 Monday through Wednesday and 8:40 - 3:15 on Thursday's and Friday's. Every effort is made to ensure that teachers have adequate planning time, but extended blocks of instruction allow our teachers to fully implement our curriculum.
We use the Workshop model as the framework for our instruction for math, reading and writing. We use Expeditionary Learning from Outward Bound as the basis for the planning. All planning and instruction is focused on State and National standards. For more information on ELOB please refer to <http://www.elob.org/design/index.html>.
We believe strongly in the importance of creating and maintaining a strong school culture. We have a full time social worker who is integrated into our school's discipline plan. A great deal of time is spent on creating and maintaining the protocols that allow classrooms to function smoothly.
The corner stone of our school is that productive classrooms and school can only come from consistency, structure and relationships between staff, students, parents and communities. To that end, we all use the workshop model (although the content varies from room to room, and grade to grade), we all use the same school wide discipline model and we all spend a lot of time (though the use of morning meeting, ELOB and other curriculum based structures) on developing a community of learners.
In the upper grades - 5th - 8th - we split the classes by gender and combine grade levels. This means that we have 4 classes in the upper team - a 5th/6th boys class, 5th/6th girls class, 7th/8th girls class and 7th/8th boys class. The middle grade teachers are responsible for teaching all subjects to their homeroom except for math, science and PE.

#044 Montebello Elementary (K – 7)

Principal – Camille Bell
2040 E. 32nd Street
Baltimore, MD 21218
410.235.4801 (office)

#368 East Baltimore Community School

Principal- Cathy Miles
6820 Fait Avenue
443-642-2060
www.ebdi.org/target-school.html

The East Baltimore Community School (EBCS) is a pre-kindergarten through eighth grade community school serving students, families and neighborhood residents. Opening in September, 2009, under contract with Baltimore City Public Schools (City Schools), EBCS will honor and sustain the proud history of East Baltimore by providing students, families, and residents the resources and opportunities to forge promising futures for themselves, their neighborhoods, and their city. Building upon the comprehensive service delivery and support network that has been put in place by EBDI, EBCS will partner with the highest quality providers to integrate learning, health and social supports so that students and families are able to achieve. In time, we expect EBCS to stand out as a model for schools and neighborhoods in Baltimore, the region, and nationwide.

Through implementation of the highly successful academic model, Expeditionary Learning (EL), EBCS will offer a dynamic program of active inquiry, hands-on learning, and community service that will help them develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviors to accelerate their academic achievement and equip them to be critical thinkers, creative problem solvers, and responsible citizens. EL’s signature practice of actively engaging students in learning that extends beyond the classroom walls to make real world connections represents a much needed addition to the educational options currently available to East Baltimore families. The school’s educational plan rests on six critical values—Connect, Respect, Engage, Achieve, Take Pride, and Excel. These values highlight the most important qualities of the school and inspire the promises and commitments that EBCS students, staff, and parents will make to themselves and to each other.

Into this rich academic program, EBCS will integrate a comprehensive array of learning, health, and family economic supports that will enable children, adolescents, their families, and the community at large to thrive. An ambitious extended day program–before school, after school, on Saturdays, and during the summer–will engage students through activities that support academic accomplishment, promote their health and wellness, expand their cultural horizons, and support personal growth. When fully implemented, the school will be part of a seven-acre campus housing an early childhood center, a family support center, a school-based health clinic, and open green space. EBCS will serve as a community hub where residents can take advantage of learning, health, recreational, and employment resources and services.

Planning for the school has been inclusive and comprehensive. It has included financial support from several foundations and corporations, and the active participation of residents, faith leaders, local elected officials, representatives from community organizations and local and national foundations, and educational leaders from elementary to graduate schools. These individuals have served as members of five advisory groups. The work of the advisory groups was augmented by a variety of community meetings in which veteran educators, current and relocated residents from the EBDI project area, and residents of neighboring communities shared their hopes, ideas, and concerns.

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