The Historic Samuel Coleridge Taylor Elementary School is named in honor of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, a distinguished British composer and conductor. Of mixed-race descent, Coleridge-Taylor achieved remarkable success, earning the nickname "African Mahler" from white musicians in New York City during his three tours of the United States in the early 1900s. As a pioneer in classical music and an iconic figure in Black British history, his legacy inspires our school community.

We are proud to bear the name of such a trailblazer and have redeveloped our school to honor his legacy. Our curriculum offers students an introduction to a wide range of art forms, including dance, vocal music, visual arts, and soon, theater and instrumental music. Our mission is to help our children SOAR—Seeing Opportunities while Achieving Resilience—to new heights, fostering their creativity, confidence, and resilience in a supportive and enriching environment.

As a community school, we are not just a place for academic learning but a hub for family and community engagement. A community school integrates academics with health and social services, youth and community development, and meaningful family partnerships. Our strategy is rooted in collaboration—with families, community organizations, and service providers—to ensure every student is supported holistically and has the opportunity to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Celebrating 100 Years of Excellence

In 2026, The Historic Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Elementary School will celebrate a historic milestone—100 years of serving Baltimore’s children and families. As one of the first schools in the city opened specifically for African-American students, our centennial represents not only a celebration of legacy but also a continued commitment to excellence, equity, and innovation. We are honored to stand on the shoulders of those who came before us and remain dedicated to cultivating the next generation of artists, leaders, and changemakers.

Join us on this incredible journey of exploration, growth, and boundless possibility as we honor the past and build toward the future—together.