Who would have thought that there was a koi pond and tilapia farm at a Baltimore City public school? Who knew that there was a high school curriculum centered around hip-hop music and poetry?
Well, now we know… after our inspiring visits to schools with these, and other, innovative programs and working with the energetic educators who lead them.
On Monday night, the Fund for Educational Excellence – and 500 community leaders, families, and supporters of public education in Baltimore – honored Baltimore’s 181 public school principals at the annual Heart of the School Awards.
There were over 550 nominations for 84 principals for this year’s awards. Ten principals were named finalists, and five were honored as Heart of The School Award winners for their leadership, innovation and commitment.
The festive and moving celebration featured Baltimore City School parent and “Indie Mom of Comedy” Meshelle, inspiring messages from former US Secretary of Education John King and city school CEO Sonja Santelises, and standing-ovation after standing-ovation in appreciation of the principals.
Proceeds from the event benefited the Principal Support Fund, which awards grants to principals for professional development, school programs and special events. In the past year, the Fund has awarded 26 grants to Baltimore City Schools principals totaling more than $100,000.
Here is some coverage of the event: Baltimore Sun, WJZ, The Steiner Show, Fox45.