Baltimore City Public Schools (City Schools) is redefining student and family support with its robust expansion of the community school model. By leveraging over $420 million in Concentration of Poverty Grants from 2020 to 2024, the district has transformed schools into hubs for academics, social services, and community support. With a commitment to transparency, equity, and inclusive decision-making, City Schools has emerged as a leader in this innovative approach.
This work has earned state recognition. Governor Wes Moore recently visited Holabird Academy to observe its success as a community school. Additionally, the Maryland Department of Education invited City Schools to present at its December 2024 board meeting, showcasing the district's effective use of Concentration of Poverty Grants.
Community schools in Baltimore provide holistic services beyond academics, including health care, mental health support, after-school programs, and family engagement initiatives. These schools act as neighborhood anchors, offering tailored services to students and families.
In spring 2019, Baltimore had 50 community schools. By fall, that number soared to 123 thanks to resources provided by Concentration of Poverty Grants. Today, in FY25, all City Schools schools and three additional programs in the district operate as community schools.
A key factor in this success is the district’s effective resource management. From FY2020 to FY2023, City Schools achieved a 99% average spending rate of its Concentration of Poverty Grants. These funds support critical services such as extended learning, vision and dental care, and weekly food markets that combat food insecurity.
The budgeting process emphasizes community input, with schools hosting three annual engagement meetings to gather feedback from families and stakeholders. School leaders also receive comprehensive budget guidance and collaborate with district teams to ensure priorities align with school-specific needs.
As City Schools continues to refine its community school model, it remains dedicated to stakeholder engagement, effective budgeting, and partnerships. By placing equity and wholeness at the center, the district is not only transforming education in Baltimore but also setting a national example.
This story proves that when schools truly become community hubs, they unlock potential far beyond their classrooms. Baltimore City Public Schools is showing that this model is not just effective—it’s the future of education.