Baltimore City Public Schools has selected a Chicago-based consulting firm to help search for the school district’s next chief executive officer.
Alma Advisory Group will assist the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners in the hiring of a successor to CEO Sonja Santelises, whose contract will end June 30, 2026.
“The Board is thrilled to begin our partnership with Alma Advisory Group,” said Board Chair Robert Salley in a statement. “This is a critical moment for the district, and we are committed to ensuring a transparent and inclusive search that reflects the voices and values of our entire community. With their guidance, the Board is confident we will select a CEO who aligns with the district’s needs and supports the Board’s goal for a smooth transition of leadership.”
Once selected, the new CEO is expected to begin in their role on July 1, 2026.
Alma Advisory Group will evaluate top candidates for qualities outlined by the school board and district stakeholders. The firm will also ensure community engagement throughout the search process.
In March, the school board retained Kremer Communications to help with community engagement related to the CEO search.
Alma Advisory Group has previously supported recruitment and hiring efforts for two senior leadership positions in Baltimore City Public Schools, including the district’s chief human capital officer and executive director of special education.
The firm has also helped school districts across the country, including Chicago; Cincinnati; Dayton, Ohio; Denver; Maine; and Vermont. Most recently, they assisted Gwinnett County Public Schools in north central Georgia near Atlanta.
