Teacher giving class

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 Process

Policy development is a step-by-step process designed to be comprehensive, consistent, and open:

  1. Policy language is drafted and revised by staff with stakeholder input.

  2. Proposed policy language is presented to the Board's Policy Committee.

  3. Public comment is accepted for 30 days after the presentation, with staff members compiling a list of issues raised.

  4. 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.

  5. A public forum or work session may be held to discuss the policy language.

  6. 2nd reader: Policy language is presented to the Board of School Commissioners, along with recommendations from the Board.

  7. The Board votes on the policy.

How Board Of School Commissioners Develops Policies

(Note that the Board may alter or suspend these procedures with a majority vote)

Providing Feedback on Board Policy

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.

  • Alignment with recent changes to Board Policy JKA (Behavioral Interventions and Student Discipline) 

  • Standardizing references to the Maryland Code and other Board Policies 

  • Clarifying that a parent/guardian or student’s appeal serves as their request for a hearing 

September 30, 2025 – Policy Committee Meeting 

November 4, 2025 – First Reader 

December 16, 2025 – Second Reader

Board Policy Feedback Form

Feedback from Board Engagement Events

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.

Visit BoardDocs

Policies and Administrative Regulations
Policy Development Calendar