Baltimore Curriculum Project (BCP) is excited to announce our 2026 Leading Minds Symposium, a signature annual event that brings educators, community leaders, and advocates together to explore the issues shaping the future of public education.
This year’s symposium will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the Maritime Conference Center, as part of BCP’s 30th Anniversary Celebration. Our 2026 theme, “30 Years of Learning: Reflecting on the Past to Shape the Future of Education,” invites participants to honor three decades of educational policies and pedagogy while looking ahead to the next generation of teaching and learning.
As BCP celebrates 30 years of partnership, innovation, and growth, the 2026 Leading Minds Symposium offers a special opportunity to reflect on our shared work and look ahead to what’s possible. This year’s event highlights the power of collaboration, the importance of learning from the past, and the need to innovate boldly for Baltimore’s students.
Featured Panel Discussion
The centerpiece will be a panel conversation exploring how lessons from the past can guide bold, forward-thinking approaches to education today and in the years ahead.
We are pleased to announce an outstanding lineup of panelists:
Roger Schulman, CEO, The Fund for Educational Excellence
As a long-standing leader in Baltimore’s education landscape, Roger Schulman has dedicated his career to advancing equity and opportunity for Baltimore city students. Under his leadership, the Fund for Educational Excellence has strengthened school-community partnerships, supported research and innovation, and elevated the voices of families and educators across Baltimore. His deep understanding of the city’s educational history and needs uniquely positions him to speak to where we’ve been and where we must go next.
Irma Johnson, Member, Maryland State Board of Education
Irma Johnson brings decades of experience in public education, school leadership, and community service. As a state board member, she plays a key role in shaping Maryland’s education policy, advocating for high-quality instruction, supportive school environments, and equitable opportunities for all students. Her perspective bridges classroom experience with statewide policy, making her an invaluable voice in conversations about the future of Maryland schools.
Ken Shelton, Educational Technology Leader and Author
A nationally recognized expert on educational technology, digital equity, and culturally responsive teaching, Ken Shelton has advised schools and districts across the country. He is recognized by Apple, Google, and Microsoft for his leadership in advancing meaningful and ethical uses of technology in education. He is also the co-author of The Promises and Perils of AI in Education: Ethics and Equity Have Entered the Chat, and his work focuses on ensuring that innovation serves students of all backgrounds.
Moderator
We are honored to have Alison Perkins-Cohen, COOof Baltimore City Public Schools and former Executive Director of BCP, serve as moderator. With experience spanning school transformation, district leadership, strategic planning, and BCP’s own organizational evolution, she brings exceptional insight into both the history and future of education in Baltimore. Her thoughtful approach will help guide a dynamic and engaging conversation.
Save the Date
Friday, February 6, 2026
Maritime Conference Center
692 Maritime Blvd.
Linthicum Heights, MD 21090
More event details and registration information will be shared soon. We look forward to learning, reflecting, and celebrating with you.