New Unified Charter School Application Launches for SY2027–28
November 11, 2026
Beginning this school year, Baltimore City Public Schools is piloting a new unified application that allows families to apply to participating charter schools through one online portal. The change follows a Maryland State Department of Education requirement for local school systems to establish a single charter school application process. During the pilot year, charter schools may choose whether to participate.
Baltimore Curriculum Project (BCP) operates six neighborhood conversion charter schools. This means our schools were traditional public schools before becoming charter schools, allowing them to maintain their commitment to the neighborhoods they serve. That history is why each school still has a designated enrollment zone, giving priority to children who live in the surrounding community. If seats remain available after neighborhood families are served, other students may apply through the lottery.
Four BCP Schools Will Participate
Families can apply to these four BCP schools through the new unified application:
- City Springs Elementary/Middle School
- Frederick Elementary School
- Govans Elementary School
- Wolfe Street Academy
Hampstead Hill Academy and Pimlico Elementary/Middle School have opted out of the pilot and will continue using their own application processes. Families interested in HHA or Pimlico should contact those schools directly.
How to Apply
Families can apply through the SEMS Parent Portal.
- Create an account.
- Add or link your child.
- Select and rank your preferred schools.
- Review and submit your application.
Applications open December 1, 2026, with a first-round deadline of January 15, 2027.
Resources for Families
Families are encouraged to explore school options before applying. The Charter School Admissions Guide provides information about participating schools and application requirements.
Families can also attend the district’s School Choice Fair on December 12, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Baltimore Convention Center.
Families without internet access can use computers or free Wi-Fi at an Enoch Pratt Free Library location or ask their school’s Choice Liaison about using school computers. Paper applications are also available. For help, contact your school’s Choice Liaison or call City Schools at 410-396-8600. For multilingual support, call 443-642-4481.
Explore BCP’s Neighborhood Schools
BCP serves more than 3,000 students across six Baltimore City schools. Each school combines a strong connection to its neighborhood with a commitment to academic growth and supportive school communities.
Learn more about all six schools on BCP’s website.