Baltimore City Public Schools CEO Honored as Maryland Superintendent of the Year

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Baltimore City Schools CEO named 2026 Maryland Superintendent of the Year.

Dr. Sonja Brookins Santelises, the Chief Executive Officer of Baltimore City Public Schools, has been named the 2026 Maryland Superintendent of the Year by the Public School Superintendents’ Association of Maryland (PSSAM). This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Santelises for her significant contributions to public education within the state.

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Dr. Santelises, who has led Baltimore City Public Schools since 2016, has been recognized for her visionary leadership and dedication to ensuring that every student receives a high-quality education that prepares them for future success. Her tenure has been marked by efforts to expand access to advanced coursework, foster stronger community partnerships, and implement innovative strategies aimed at improving student outcomes. The award specifically highlights her strategic focus on equity and student achievement. As part of this recognition, Dr. Santelises will also represent Maryland in the upcoming AASA National Superintendent of the Year program. The selection process for the Maryland Superintendent of the Year award involved a rigorous application and was determined by a panel of her peers, fellow superintendents, who evaluated candidates based on their outstanding leadership and commitment to excellence in public education.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Department of Education.

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