Lena Tashjian

Founder & Executive Director

Lena Tashjian is an award winning social justice educator with twenty years of domestic and international teaching experience. She earned her Bachelor's degree in English and Psychology from the University of Virginia, her Master's degree in Teaching from Duke University, and her Master's degree in English from Middlebury College.

Ms. Tashjian is a two-time National Board recipient, a Fulbright alumna, and a model teacher with expertise delivering presentations on culturally responsive teaching, curriculum development, and peer tutoring pedagogy. Her commitment to decolonizing academic spaces is evident through the innovative design and implementation of culturally responsive curricula including her social justice literature course. She has been recognized for her dedication to teaching and social justice through awards such as The 1619 Project Education Network Grant and the Teaching Excellence and Achievement Grant. In 2014, she founded the Baltimore City College Writing Center, the first peer-led writing center in Baltimore City Schools and has been working to expand peer tutoring programs districtwide.

In 2023, Ms. Tashjian won the prestigious grand-prize for the Johns Hopkins Social Innovation Lab and subsequently founded the Believe and Achieve Peer Tutoring Association (BAPTA), a non-profit dedicated to expanding peer tutoring programs in urban public schools nationwide. She has received commendations for her leadership and community work from Baltimore City Public Schools, the Baltimore City Council, and the Maryland General Assembly. She is a dynamic and influential educator who continues to shape the educational landscape with her unwavering commitment to social justice, diversity, and excellence in teaching. Her multifaceted approach to advocacy reflects her belief in the transformative power of education beyond traditional boundaries.

Brandon McKoy

Brandon Maurice McKoy, a Baltimore native, is a dynamic force in social work, education, and activism. Committed to effecting positive change, Brandon earned his Bachelors in Social Work from the illustrious Morgan State University. Showcasing unwavering dedication to advocacy and empowerment, Brandon continued his graduate studies at Morgan State University, completing a Master in Social Work program in a remarkable one year.

As a vital member of the United States government military social services team and teaching in Baltimore Schools, Brandon employs evidence-based practices to provide crucial support to underserved populations, embodying a compassionate and effective approach. Beyond his professional role, Brandon actively engages in community initiatives, partnering with organizations to transform lives.

Believing in equal opportunities for success, Brandon is involved in various endeavors, from music to grassroots movements, consistently seeking to catalyze positive change and promote social justice. Grounded in empathy, resilience, and a profound dedication to equity, Brandon McKoy stands at the forefront of progress, advocating for vulnerable populations and working toward a more inclusive society.

Sarah Jeanblanc

Sarah Jeanblanc is an educator with a deep commitment to student success. With a background in administration, supervision, and teaching, Sarah currently serves as the On Track to Graduate Coordinator at Baltimore City College, where she has been a part of the faculty since 2001.

Sarah earned a M.S. in Administration and Supervision from Johns Hopkins University in 2012 and a dual degree in B.A. English Literature and B.S. Secondary Teaching from Miami University in 1995, where she also worked as an American Indian Project Scholar in 1994 on the Navajo Reservation.

Sarah has been awarded the Bernard Manekin Award in 2014, Baltimore City Public Schools Model Teacher in 2013, Baltimore City College Teacher of the Year in 2011, and National Board Certification as a Teacher in 2004.

In 2020, she served as a Research Fellow, delving into "A Study of the Implementation and Effectiveness of the MYP." In 2016, she presented at the Conference of the Americas in 2016, where she presented on the "Culture of Learning: One IB World School Presenter - Journey to Transform Assessment and Grading Practice." Additionally, Sarah contributed to the 2014 IB Conference of the Americas with her presentation on "Closing the Achievement Gap through IB: A School’s Journey."

Ali Engsberg

Alisa Engsberg is a dedicated educator and leader in the field of mathematics, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to her roles at Baltimore City College. As a Model Teacher certified in Mathematics and Physics for Grades 6 - 12, and with specialized training in teaching AP Calculus, Ms. Engsberg is committed to fostering a deep understanding of mathematical concepts among her students.

As a Math Educator since 2009, Ms. Engsberg has played a pivotal role in curriculum development, particularly for Algebra 2 and IB Math Studies. She emphasizes a holistic approach that encourages students to express and deepen their understanding in an inclusive and collaborative learning environment. Her commitment to equity led her to establish not one, but two peer tutoring centers, one dedicated to math and one dedicated to science. As the founder and director of these centers, Ms. Engsberg is responsible for training students in both subject matter and effective tutoring techniques. Her commitment to equity is also evident through her roles in the School-based Equity Action Team and as the Assessment Policy Committee Chair, where she actively contributes to creating an inclusive and fair educational environment.

Alisa Engsberg's dedication to educational excellence, equity initiatives, and innovative teaching approaches makes her a valued asset to Baltimore City College and the broader educational community.

Cyniya Cobb

Cyniya Cobb is an aspiring educator and dedicated student at Coppin State University, currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.

With valuable experience as a long-term substitute teacher and girls' basketball coach at Gwynns Falls Elementary, Cyniya has developed a strong foundation in fostering student growth and engagement. As a lead peer mentor at Coppin State, she is passionate about helping others learn and thrive in their educational journeys. Cyniya's commitment to education is reflected in her academic achievements, having made the Dean's List twice last year, and her proud membership in Kappa Delta Pi, the International Honor Society in Education.

Her ultimate goal is to become an elementary school teacher in the heart of Baltimore, with aspirations of furthering her education to become a principal in a public school within Baltimore City. Cyniya's dedication to her community and future students underscores her belief in the transformative power of education.

BAPTA is committed to closing our nationwide achievement gaps (see our about page for more)
BAPTA is a non-profit organization, every donation is greatly valued (see our donate page for more)

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