Public School Enrollment 

Baltimore City offers free pre-kindergarten for all children who are four years old by September 1 of the school year.  Space is limited, so register early. To find a pre-kindergarten program near you,  visit Baltimore City Schools or call (443) 984-2000 for more information.  Kids in grades K-8, including those who need special help, can get free education with just two easy steps. 

1. Find Your Zoned School 
 
A zoned school is a neighborhood public school for students who live in a specific area.  Typically, this is the public school found closest to the student’s home based on your home address. 
 
Find your zoned school online at Baltimore City Schools by following the school locator link. You can also call the call center at 410-396-8600. 

2. Go to the School to Enroll 

Once you have found the school for your child, visit the school or the Multilingual Enrollment and Support Center with your child and bring the following documents: 

  • Birth certificate or other government-issued document showing birth date
  • A valid, unexpired photo ID of parent or legal guardian
  • Proof of guardianship (if applicable)
  • Immunization record 
  • Immunization Services are available through free T.I.K.E clinics; for more information, call 410-396-4454 
  • Proof of current physical examination
  • At least two proofs of residency  
  • Can include any of the following: utility bill such as gas and electric, water bill, original lease agreement, deed, bank/mortgage statement, official payroll document from an employer, and/or social security/social services document (dated within the last 30 days)  
  • Individualized Education Program (IEP; if applicable)  
  • Lead test certificate

If not zoned to a particular school, please visit the Office of Enrollment, Choice, and Transfers or the Multilingual Enrollment and Support Center located at Baltimore City Public Schools’ Headquarters for placement options. Address: 200 E. North Ave., Baltimore, MD 21202. 

Multilingual Enrollment and Support Center 

The Multilingual Enrollment and Support Center of Baltimore City Public Schools is at 200 E North Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202. They have a team that speaks many languages and can assist parents and students with tasks like enrolling in school, transferring to a different school, and choosing the right school. They can also help with things like evaluating foreign transcripts, connecting families to social workers and community organizations, and providing guidance on course selection for high school students who are older or have few credits. 

You can visit them without an appointment, or you can contact them by emailing MESC@bcps.k12.md.us or calling 443-642-4481. 

High School Enrollment 

Once your child has reached high school (grades 9-12), they don’t have to go to their zoned school. Enrollment follows a different process. Students can decide where they would like to attend in order to best meet their needs and interests. For a list of high schools throughout the city, please visit Baltimore City Schools.  

A number of charter school options are also available in Baltimore. Charter schools are public schools that operate independently from the county school system. Any student can go to a charter school, no matter where they live in the city. For a list of all city charter schools, please visit the Maryland Charter School Directory. 

Re-engagement Center  

The Re-Engagement Center is where young people who don't connect with school can get help. The Center also helps those returning from incarceration. The Center helps with school placement advising and services (for students under 21), connecting students with their interests, and supporting them with modified teaching options. They also connect students to wrap-around supports for success in school and beyond. Call 443-642-4220 to schedule an appointment time. 

Other Important Information 

Language Access 
 
If English is not your first language, you have the right to request language assistance at any Baltimore City Public School.  

School Closings 
 
Due to inclement weather, schools may elect to open late or close for the day. This information can be found by visiting your local school’s website or Baltimore City Schools as well as through local television and radio. You may also call the call center at (443) 984-2000. 

Safety 
 
The Baltimore City School Police Force makes sure that schools are a safe place for students and staff.  If you have any questions or concerns related to the safety of your child while in school, please contact the call center at (443) 984-2000. For all other emergencies, call 911.