Since 2008, the Baltimore Curriculum Project (BCP) has convened local and national experts through the Leading Minds Symposium— a dynamic forum designed to spark meaningful conversations about the pressing issues facing Baltimore City students. By bringing together educators, policymakers, and thought leaders, Leading Minds fosters collaboration that shapes policy and drives real change in K-12 education.
Beyond the Status Quo
At Leading Minds, we don’t shy away from tough conversations. We challenge conventional wisdom, embrace the complexity of education policy, and push beyond quick fixes to identify lasting solutions. Through open dialogue and shared expertise, we strive to create a stronger, more equitable future for Baltimore’s students.
2026 Leading Minds Symposium
Friday, February 6, 2026 | Maritime Conference Center
Join Baltimore Curriculum Project for the Leading Minds Symposium, part of our 30th Anniversary Celebration.
This year’s theme, “30 Years of Learning: Reflecting on the Past to Shape the Future of Education,” brings together education leaders, policymakers, and community partners to explore bold strategies for the future of learning.
Hear from leading experts, engage in live discussion, and gain insights to inspire change in Baltimore’s schools. The conversation will be live-streamed to reach a wider audience.
Featured Panel
Roger Schulman
CEO, Fund for Educational Excellence
Irma Johnson
Member, Maryland State Board of Education
Ken Shelton
Educational Technology Leader and Author
Alison Perkins-Cohen
Chief of Staff, Baltimore City Public Schools
Past Topics
February 13, 2025
Adapting to a Changing World: Tackling Chronic Absenteeism and Reinventing Parent Engagement and Community Schools Post-Pandemic
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January 26, 2024
Exploring the impact of social media on students’ mental health and academic outcomes
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January 23, 2023
Violence Prevention and the role of the school
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January 25, 2019
Educating the Whole Child
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February 17, 2017
The adolescent literacy crisis in America
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October 8, 2014
Cure for the Common Core: Teaching Content Knowledge and the Common Core Standards
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September 26, 2013
Ready to Teach: Preparing New Teachers for the Classroom
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September 27, 2012
How to Evaluate and Support Great Teachers
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September 22, 2011
The Impact of Poverty on Education
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May 27, 2010
Diane Ravitch’s The Death and Life of the Great American School System
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September 17, 2009
The unintended consequences of high-stakes testing under No Child Left Behind
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April 24, 2008
K-12 Math Education Forum
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