Are You Smarter Than a BCP Student Gala
Thursday, April 30, 2026
Join us for an unforgettable evening as the Baltimore Curriculum Project (BCP) celebrates its 30th Anniversary at our signature annual fundraiser, Are You Smarter Than a BCP Student?
Thursday, April 30, 2026 | 6:00–10:00 pm
Maryland Science Center
This lively, game-show-style gala brings together community leaders, educators, families, and friends of BCP for a night of fun, friendly competition, and meaningful impact. Since its inception in 2012, this beloved event has raised crucial funds for BCP schools while showcasing the incredible talents and accomplishments of BCP students.
This year’s Are You Smarter Than a BCP Student Gala celebrates our 30-year history and the people and communities that have helped shape it. Our celebrity contestants reflect this, each with their own stories and connections to three of BCP’s longest-standing schools: City Springs, Hampstead Hill Academy, and Wolfe Street Academy.
Celebrity Contestants
Darren Meredith, Electrical Engineer at Northrop Grumman, City Springs Alum, Class of 2015
Darren Meredith is a proud graduate of City Springs Elementary/Middle School, Class of 2015. He went on to Baltimore Polytechnic Institute and earned his engineering degree from Morgan State University. Today, Darren works as an electrical engineer at Northrop Grumman, giving back to the city and inspiring Baltimore students to pursue STEM careers.
Mark Parker, Baltimore City Council Member, District 1
Mark Parker has lived and served in Highlandtown, a vibrant Baltimore neighborhood near Hampstead Hill Academy. He is also the pastor of Breath of God Lutheran Church, where he has long supported Latino and immigrant families, helping them access resources, navigate systems, and feel connected to the community. Before joining the Baltimore City Council, Mark’s work as a pastor and community advocate shaped his commitment to families and children. Now representing District 1, he continues this work in City Hall, advocating for schools, families, and children across the Hampstead Hill Academy community and beyond, ensuring that all families have the support and opportunities they need to thrive.
Jessy DeSantis, Artist and Wolfe Street Academy Parent
Jessy DeSantis is a Baltimore-based artist and parent of two students at Wolfe Street Academy. Raised in a Nicaraguan household, they draw on their cultural heritage to create art that celebrates identity, heritage, and belonging. Jessy designed Memoria y Esperanza (Memory and Hope), a vibrant mural at Wolfe Street that involved students, families, and community members in its creation and honors the school’s cultural diversity. Their work has also been recognized citywide, with the painting Cintli, Corn, Maíz acquired by the Walters Art Museum for its permanent collection, connecting their community-focused practice to Baltimore’s broader artistic and cultural landscape.
Tom Hall, Emcee, WYPR Host
Returning for his third year as emcee, Tom Hall is one of Baltimore’s most recognizable local voices. For over two decades, Tom has been a trusted host and public affairs broadcaster with WYPR, most recently guiding the award‑winning Midday program with thoughtful conversations on news, culture, and community life. His warmth, humor, and deep connection to Baltimore schools make him the perfect guide for an evening celebrating the talent, knowledge, and dedication of BCP students and the community that supports them.
Student Contestant Information Coming Soon!
What to Expect with Your Ticket
Your ticket includes an evening filled with celebration, connection, and inspiration:
Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres upon arrival
Premiere of BCP’s 30th Anniversary documentary, highlighting our journey, students, staff, and lasting impact in Baltimore
Awards and special recognitions honoring partners and leaders who have helped shape BCP’s story
The fan-favorite Are You Smarter Than a BCP Student? live game show
Dinner, dessert, and celebration
Thank you to our sponsors
Academic All- Stars
Rising Star
Teachers Pet Sponsor
These generous sponsors provide 10 complimentary tickets, giving BCP teachers and staff the opportunity to attend and enjoy this special event.
In-Kind Donations
We are grateful to SwagDog for generously donating the trophies for our event.
JOIN US AS A SPONSOR FOR THE 2026 GALA
Support Baltimore’s brightest students and celebrate 30 years of BCP’s impact by becoming a sponsor for “Are You Smarter Than a BCP Student” on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Sponsorship is more than a contribution—it’s a statement of belief in public education and community transformation. Your support helps:
Fuel programs that inspire curiosity, creativity, and learning
Showcase student talent in a fun, engaging competition
Bring together a vibrant network of sponsors, community leaders, and educators
As a sponsor, you will:
Gain visibility among advocates who believe in Baltimore
Align your brand with a meaningful cause
Receive exclusive recognition opportunities
Join us as a sponsor and place your organization at the heart of Baltimore’s educational community while making a lasting impact.
“Our event is great fun, brings together the Baltimore community, celebrates the accomplishments of BCP students, and supports BCP’s ongoing commitment to quality public education.”
Laura Doherty
President and CEO
Relive the excitement of last year’s Are You Smarter Than a BCP Student? gala! See our talented students, celebrity guests, and community supporters come together for a night of fun, learning, and celebration.
