BCPS Collection Overview

Collection Title: Baltimore City Public Schools Social Work Services (BCPS)

Inclusive Dates: 1936-2008

Size: 11.8 linear feet

Scope and Contents:  
Correspondence, handbooks, administrative files, clippings, and publications.

Historical Note:  
In 1973, the Baltimore City Public Schools (BCPS) underwent a reorganization that changed the system from a centralized administrative structure to a decentralized one that encompassed nine regions. As a result, major executive and managerial functions were moved from system headquarters to nine buildings throughout the city, and regional superintendents were given greater authority. Along with this restructuring, the School Social Work's (SSW) record room was eliminated. The record keeping systems of other BCPS programs were affected as well, including psychological services, psychiatric services, attendance and court services, the home visitors service, a paraprofessional program, and other pupil services programs. Without a formal program for retaining their records through BCPS, professional staff in the SSW began compiling and retaining copies of their own records.

Custodial History:  
The collection was donated to the University of Baltimore by Joan Y. Harris, ACSW, in 2002.

Arrangement:
The collection has been organized into 12 series:

Series I. Administrative & Organizational Structures

Series II. Policy, Personnel, and Program Development

Series III. Service/Related Programs

Series IV. Public Policy and Community Services

Series V. School Social Work Association

Series VI. School Social Work State Certification Efforts

Series VII. Maryland State Department of Education (MDSE) Involvements/Advocacy

Series VIII. National Social Work

Series IX. Public School Supervisors & Administrators Association

Series X. Educational Specialist's Personnel Matters & Commendations

Series XI. Multi-Media & Photographs

Series XII. Artifacts & Memorabilia

Additional Information:
To find about more about this collection, see the collection introduction written by Joan Y. Harris, ACSW.