Dr. Sonja Santelises is walking into her 10th and final year as CEO of Baltimore City Public Schools.

She is feeling a mix of emotions as she prepares for her final year as CEO. She sat down with WJZ to reflect on the past decade ahead of the 2025-26 school year.

"I have loved leading her," she said. "I love this city's young people. They are some of the most gifted young people anywhere."

Dr. Santelises said this year comes with a clearer focus on academic achievement and providing more opportunities for students.

"I think there's more intentionality this year, because it's my last year," she said.

Chronic absenteeism in Baltimore schools

Dr. Santelises said she stands firm in the effort to drive down chronic absences and strengthen math and reading scores across the district.

The

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