BCP Welcomes New Educators with New Teacher Training
August 17, 2026
Baltimore Curriculum Project (BCP) welcomed its newest educators with a week of comprehensive professional learning designed to prepare them for success from day one in the classroom.
Held August 3-7, 2026, at Govans Elementary School, BCP’s annual New Educator Summer Institute (NESI) brought together new teachers and instructional staff from across the network’s six neighborhood conversion charter schools. The week reflects BCP’s belief that investing in teachers is one of the most important ways to improve student outcomes.
Participants explored BCP’s instructional model, learned practical classroom strategies, and built relationships with colleagues who will support them throughout the school year.
Specialized workshops aligned to their grade level and teaching assignment included:
Training in Direct Instruction reading and language programs, Connecting Math Concepts, Reveal Math and ALEKS, the new edition of Corrective Reading, and Direct Instruction Spoken English (DISE)- Academic Coach-led practice sessions to rehearse lessons, strengthen instructional techniques, and build confidence using their curriculum before students arrive
- Praxis preparation courses
- Support for Pre-K teachers working toward Child Development Associate (CDA) certification
- A new “Middle School Teacher Moves/BCP Signature Practices” workshop focused on high-impact instructional strategies that can be applied across content areas, and
- Additional sessions to effectively support students with disabilities, multilingual learners, and students’ social-emotional growth through Restorative Practices and CHAMPS classroom management
One of the NESI highlights is the opportunity for educators to learn directly from experienced instructional leaders and coaches while collaborating with colleagues across all six schools. For the past several years, Maura Farrall, Lead Academic Coach, has played an important role in organizing and leading the NESI.
She has thoughtfully designed a week that prepares educators for the opportunities and challenges of the classroom. Her commitment to supporting teachers and creating a strong foundation for new staff has helped make this training a valued tradition across the BCP network. As Maura prepares to retire at the end of this school year, BCP is grateful for her time, care, and expertise.
Beginning next year, Nora Hogan, BCP’s new Director of Academic Coaching and Development, will lead the NESI, continuing BCP’s commitment to providing educators with high-quality professional learning and support.
That support continues long after the NESI concludes. Throughout the school year, teachers receive individualized coaching, classroom observations, and ongoing professional development from their schools’ Academic Coaches. In turn, Academic Coaches participate in ongoing professional learning to strengthen their own instructional leadership and coaching practices. This commitment to continuous learning at every level of the organization helps educators refine their craft, grow professionally, and provide high-quality instruction that supports student success.
Watch a video about BCP’s approach to Educator Support.
For 30 years, BCP has recognized that excellent teachers are the foundation of student success. Through research-based curriculum, intensive professional learning, instructional coaching, and a collaborative culture, BCP empowers educators to make a lasting impact in the lives of Baltimore’s children.