Thomas D. Baird - Central High School of Baltimore

Central High School of Baltimore

Under Baird's leadership, the school underwent a series of improvements aimed at strengthening the caliber of students admitted to the school and the quality of education. Baird increased the rigor of entrance examinations to the school as well as standards required for promotion to the next grade. This was evidenced in his first year as principal, when only about a third of the first year class was promoted to the second year. Baird also brought about changes in discipline at the school. He eliminated corporal punishment, and instead instituted a system in which a student's behavior was factored into his standing at the school.

In 1866, under the recommendation of Baird, a process was begun to elevate the high school to the status of a college. The school was renamed the Baltimore City College and a five-year course of study was created, in addition to the standard four-year course. Despite the change, the school was never elevated, and in 1869, Baird terminated the five-year course.

Academic offices
Preceded by
George Morrison
Principal of Baltimore City College
1857–1873
Succeeded by
William Elliott, Jr.

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