State law provides that the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners, with the advice of the CEO, determines the district's educational, management, maintenance, and operational policies. Policies are aligned with the Board's mission and goals, as well as with applicable federal and state laws. Administrative regulations guide how policies are implemented. Adopted policies are available on BoardDocs, the Board's governance website.
Policy development is a step-by-step process designed to be comprehensive, consistent, and open:
Policy language is drafted and revised by staff with stakeholder input.
Proposed policy language is presented to the Board's Policy Committee.
Public comment is accepted for 30 days after the presentation, with staff members compiling a list of issues raised.
1st reader: Policy language is presented to the Board of School Commissioners, along with recommendations from the Policy Committee and a summary of the public comment received.
A public forum or work session may be held to discuss the policy language.
2nd reader: Policy language is presented to the Board of School Commissioners, along with recommendations from the Board.
The Board votes on the policy.
(Note that the Board may alter or suspend these procedures with a majority vote)
Public feedback plays a crucial role in the Policy Development Process. It allows the district to make effective and well-informed decisions while remaining accountable for the concerns shared by our students, staff, families, and communities. As a valued stakeholder, City Schools needs your feedback on the Board policies currently under revision. Using the Board Policy Feedback Form, you can directly share your thoughts on policies that affect you.
Policy Under Review | Purpose of Policy | Proposed Changes | Timeline for Policy Development |
|---|---|---|---|
BLC – Procedures in Appeals and Hearings Under § 7-305 of the Education Article (Student Discipline) | To provide procedures for all appeals to the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners under the Maryland Code, Education Article, Section 7-305. |
| September 30, 2025 – Policy Committee Meeting November 4, 2025 – First Reader December 16, 2025 – Second Reader |
GBEH – Legal Representation: Risk Management Committee) | Sets forth the legal standards utilized by the Office of Legal Counsel to provide cost-effective, high-quality, creative, and proactive legal problem solving to support the Board, the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), and other Board employees to navigate legal requirements, evaluate and manage legal risk, align and conserve resources, promote collaborative dispute resolution and reduce avoidable litigation, if possible, and engage in strategic decision-making to promote equity and academic excellence for all students in City Schools. |
| October 28, 2025 – Policy Committee Meeting |
City Schools' students can use the Student Input Submission Form to share ideas, questions, or concerns related to school policies, leadership, events, and more. Submissions are reviewed weekly and shared with the Board of School Commissioners and Board Office.
To submit feedback, click here.
The Board of School Commissioners thanks you for participating in its community engagement events. Your attendance ensures that Baltimore City Public Schools reflect the wants and needs of all stakeholders. To continue the conversation and help spread awareness of the Board's work, the Board has compiled a list of questions and answers from recent events. For additional inquiries, please contact the Board Office.
