What is BCTR?

Baltimore City Public Schools

BALTIMORE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS: WHAT DRIVES US 

“We have great kids in Baltimore City with great potential. And they all deserve great schools. We are working to transform Baltimore City Public Schools into an entire system of great schools.  Our school communities must be responsible to our kids, and great schools happen when everyone in the school, the system and beyond takes that responsibility to heart. To be great, schools must have: great principals; great teachers in every classroom; instruction that reaches all kids, with their many different needs; the freedom to create a unique learning community; and involved parents and communities. The challenge is simple—and huge. But together, City Schools and its families, communities and partners will create great school options for all children in Baltimore City.”(From the Baltimore City Schools’ website, www.baltimorecityschools.org)

Baltimore City Public Schools is the 4th largest school district in Maryland, including 186 schools and more than 87,000 students. Please click here for current statistics about City Schools, or here for a more in depth look at some of the exciting changes and programs helping to make City Schools into Great Schools.

The School Day

The school day in Baltimore City is approximately 7 hours long, generally running from either 7:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. or from 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Most teachers are granted one planning period per day, but this can vary by school and grade level. Beyond the formal school day, teachers spend time out of class preparing their lessons, grading students’ work, and communicating with parents and guardians.

Baltimore City Public Schools: Salary

It’s important to note that Residents are employees of Baltimore City Public Schools; employment contracts are made with City Schools, not with the BCTR. However, BCTR Residents are considered “highly qualified”, which means they enter the classroom at a Step 4 salary. (Prior experience as the teacher of record may qualify individuals to begin at a higher step.) Please note that all advanced degrees are evaluated by the Office of Certification.

Baltimore City Public Schools: Benefits

Baltimore City Public Schools employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package; City Schools pays up to 100% of the premium, depending on the plan. The benefits package includes:

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Prescription Drug Plan
• Vision Plan
• Life Insurance
• Pension System

Please click here for a full description of benefits available to City School employees.