BCPS Schools Rank Second in State

The Maryland State Department of Education released the 2026 school report cards on October 29, 2026. Baltimore County Public Schools holds the second-highest number of five-star schools in the state. The district recorded 25 five-star schools based on data from the 2025-2026 school year.

Baltimore County Public Schools improved its average star rating for the third consecutive year. The district average rose to 3.6 stars in 2026. This represents a 0.2 point increase from the 3.4 average recorded in 2025. The state data shows that 36 Baltimore County schools raised their overall star rating. The number of two and three-star schools in the district dropped by 12 percent.

Elementary schools showed gains across all report card indicators. These include academic performance in language arts, English, and mathematics. Schools also improved in English proficiency, school quality, and student success metrics. Academic progress in English and mathematics, science proficiency, and full curriculum completion all improved at the elementary level. Middle schools saw similar gains in academic performance, school quality, and student success.

High schools demonstrated improvements in academic performance and English proficiency. They also showed progress in postsecondary readiness and school quality. Student groups across elementary, middle, and high schools recorded gains in mathematics. Most student groups at all three levels also improved in language arts.

Of the 162 Baltimore County schools that report accountability data for the 2025-2026 year, the breakdown of star ratings is as follows: 25 schools earned five stars, 68 earned four stars, 50 earned three stars, 17 earned two stars, and two earned one star. Elementary and middle schools are evaluated on academic performance, academic progress, English proficiency progress, school quality, and student success. High schools are evaluated on academic performance, graduation rates, English proficiency progress, postsecondary readiness, school quality, and student success.

Dr. Bill Heiser, the district superintendent, noted that 28 of the 109 elementary schools that received star ratings in 2026 increased their rating by one star. Seventy-seven elementary schools, or more than 70 percent of the total, maintained their previous ratings. Only four elementary schools received a lower star rating than in 2025. Among the 27 middle schools, six raised their scores by one star, one lowered its score, and 20 held steady. In the 24 comprehensive high schools, 21 maintained their previous ratings, two increased by one star, and one decreased.

The state is currently working to redesign the accountability system and increase transparency. Baltimore County Public Schools will continue to focus on improving educational opportunities and student outcomes. The district will use various measures to evaluate progress and make necessary adjustments for students and the system.