Baltimore City Public Schools (City Schools) is proud to announce that Dr. Sonja Brookins Santelises, Chief Executive Officer, has been selected as one of four finalists for the 2026 National Superintendent of the Year award, following her recognition as Maryland Superintendent of the Year.
This prestigious national honor, presented by AASA: The School Superintendents Association, highlights exemplary leadership in public education. The National Superintendent of the Year program celebrates superintendents who demonstrate outstanding achievements in educational leadership, professional accomplishments, and commitment to students, staff, and communities across the nation.
Dr. Santelises has served as CEO of Baltimore City Public Schools since 2016, leading the district through sustained academic progress, community engagement, and strategic innovation. Under her leadership, City Schools has seen notable improvements in student literacy, expanded access to rigorous coursework, strengthened arts programs, and significant facility upgrades, accomplishments that reflect her deep commitment to equity and excellence for every student.
“Being chosen by my peers for this recognition is both humbling and inspiring,” said Dr. Santelises. “It reflects the collective work of our students, educators, families, and community partners who believe in what is possible for Baltimore’s young people. This honor belongs to them as much as it does to me.”
In his letter recommending Dr. Santelises to be the National Superintendent of the Year, Maryland Governor Wes Moore said:
“I have known Dr. Santelises for many years, and I have had the privilege of working with her throughout my term as Governor on many occasions. She has demonstrated an unparalleled dedication to the ideals of public education in an urban setting, while providing strong leadership, academic expertise, and managerial excellence to support the success of Baltimore’s young people and their families.”
Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott also shared his support for Dr. Santelises and the transformative progress seen across City Schools.
“As a proud graduate of Baltimore City Schools, I can attest to the positive impact that Dr. Santelises has had on the students, families and communities of Baltimore City throughout her tenure,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. "In her 10 years as Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Santelises has overseen historic progress, including the construction of 30 new, 21st century schools in neighborhoods that have experienced historic disinvestment. She has established an environment of possibility, stability and purpose across the district, by providing strong, compassionate leadership and maintaining high expectations for every student. This recognition is well deserved."
Robert Salley, Chair of the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners, applauded Dr. Santelises’ leadership and influence across the district, noting the broader impact of her work.
“Dr. Santelises’ selection as a finalist for National Superintendent of the Year embodies our district’s belief in high expectations, hard work, and the limitless potential of our students,” said Chair Salley. “This honor recognizes not just her excellence, but the collective strength of a community committed to helping every child thrive. We could not be prouder of our CEO.”