BCPS Rises in Maryland Star Ratings

Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) received a higher average star rating from the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) on Wednesday, October 29. The district's mean score climbed to 3.6 stars, up from 3.4 in the previous year. This marks the third consecutive year that the district has improved its overall rating.

The 2026 report card, released by MSDE, uses data from the 2025-2026 school year. Under the current system, BCPS now holds the second-highest number of five-star schools in Maryland, with 25 institutions receiving the top designation. Only one other district in the state has more.

Of the 162 BCPS schools rated for this cycle, 68 earned four stars and 50 received three stars. Seventeen schools were rated at two stars, while two schools received one star. The number of two- and three-star schools in the district decreased by 12 percent compared to the prior year.

Thirty-six schools increased their star ratings this year. In the elementary division, 28 of the 109 rated schools gained one star. Seventy-seven elementary schools kept their previous rating, and only four saw a drop of one star. Middle schools showed a similar pattern, with six of 27 schools raising their rating and 20 holding steady.

Among the 24 comprehensive high schools, 21 maintained their 2025 ratings. Two high schools moved up one star, and one moved down. The district noted improvements in academic performance, school quality, and student success across all levels. Elementary schools saw gains in English language arts, mathematics, and English language proficiency.

High schools specifically improved in academic performance, English proficiency, and preparation for postsecondary success. MSDE evaluates K-8 schools based on academic performance, academic progress, English proficiency progress, school quality, and student success. High schools are judged on academic performance, graduation rates, English proficiency progress, postsecondary preparation, school quality, and student success.

Dr. Bill Heiser, the district superintendent, sent an update to staff and the community on October 29. He noted that the district is continuing to focus on improving educational opportunities while the state works to redesign its accountability system. He stated that BCPS will use various measures to evaluate student progress and make necessary adjustments.

MSDE published the report to provide transparency on how each public school system performs. The department also released user guides and one-page summaries to help families understand the calculations behind the star ratings. The data reflects the latest available performance metrics for the 2025-2026 academic year.

The rating system remains a key benchmark for school performance in Maryland. BCPS officials indicated that they will continue to monitor student outcomes and instructional quality. The district's improvement comes as the state aims to increase clarity in its reporting methods.