Maryland school data shows BCPS average star rating rises to 3.6

Baltimore County Public Schools students are part of a district that just received its highest average star rating in three years. The Maryland State Department of Education released the 2026 Maryland School Report Card on Wednesday, October 29, using data from the 2025-2026 school year. The new scores affect how families and educators view the district's performance across its 162 accountable schools.

The district’s overall average star rating increased by 0.2 points, moving from 3.4 in 2025 to 3.6 in 2026. This marks the third consecutive year the average has risen. BCPS now holds the second-highest number of five-star schools in Maryland, with 25 campuses receiving that top designation. The total number of schools with five stars in the district increased by two compared to the previous year.

A total of 36 schools raised their overall star rating this year. Meanwhile, the count of two- and three-star schools dropped by 12 percent in 2026. Among the 109 elementary schools that received ratings, 28 moved up one star. Only four elementary schools saw their rating decrease by one star. The remaining 77 elementary schools kept the same rating as in 2025.

At the middle school level, six of the 27 schools increased their star rating by one point. One middle school saw a decrease of one star, while 20 schools maintained their previous ratings. The district’s 24 comprehensive high schools showed similar stability. Twenty-one high schools kept their 2025 ratings, two moved up one star, and one moved down.

Elementary schools showed gains in academic performance in English language arts, English, and mathematics. They also improved in English proficiency, school quality, and student success. Middle schools saw improvements in academic performance, school quality, and student success. High schools reported gains in academic performance, English proficiency, postsecondary readiness, and school quality. Most student subgroups across all levels showed improvements in mathematics and English language arts.

Dr. Bill Heiser, the superintendent of BCPS, stated that the district is celebrating the 36 schools that raised their ratings. He noted that staff worked to promote excellence for all students. The state is currently working to redesign its accountability system to increase transparency. BCPS plans to continue using various measures to evaluate student progress and make necessary adjustments to its programs.

The report card provides families with tools to analyze each school's rating. The Maryland State Department of Education published these resources on its website, including user guides and one-page documents that summarize the calculations for elementary, middle, and high schools. The data reflects the district's performance under the current state accountability metrics for the 2025-2026 academic year.