Fort Washington, Maryland, August 24, 2025
News Summary
Excel Academy Public Charter School in Fort Washington, Maryland, has announced its closure just before the start of the school year, affecting nearly 500 students. Parents are left scrambling for new school placements as the charter school cites financial challenges and declining enrollment. The school, known for its rigorous International Baccalaureate program, surrendered its charter after 20 years of operation. Prince George’s County Public Schools assured families of support, including reassignment of teachers and communication regarding placement details.
Fort Washington, Maryland – Excel Academy Public Charter School has announced that it will close just four days before the beginning of the 2025-2026 school year, leaving nearly 500 students and their families in a difficult position. The school officially surrendered its charter on August 21, citing financial challenges exacerbated by declining enrollment, relocation costs due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and changes in budget allocations impacting charter schools.
The closure has provoked severe disappointment among parents and students who were preparing to return to school shortly. Many parents were unaware of any impending issues, as they had recently purchased school uniforms and school supplies in anticipation of the upcoming academic year. This unexpected decision has left families scrambling to find new educational placements.
Parents have expressed shock and sadness over the news. One parent noted the challenges her eighth-grade child faces in transitioning to a new school during his final year before high school. Another parent, who has three children enrolled at Excel Academy, is particularly concerned about securing placements for her middle and elementary-aged children by the fast-approaching school start date.
In response to the closure, Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) has reassured families that teachers from Excel Academy will be reassigned to positions in other district schools. Students will be placed in their respective home schools, ensuring that they have access to educational resources. Furthermore, the SEED/Excel nonprofit organization, which operated the school, has expressed its commitment to working with affected families to assist them in finding alternative schooling options.
Excel Academy, established in 2005, was noted for its academically rigorous International Baccalaureate program and was one of the earliest charter schools in Prince George’s County. The school’s mission was centered on preparing students for college, making its closure particularly impactful for families invested in this vision.
Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph indicated that the district would take proactive measures to assist families and ensure a smooth transition for both students and staff affected by this sudden closure. Additionally, families are expected to receive ongoing communications from PGCPS regarding placement details and further steps to take as the situation develops.
The abrupt closure of Excel Academy has left many families reflecting on their educational journey thus far. Former students and parents conveyed their uncertainty over the next educational steps they must now take. With the school year rapidly approaching, these families are facing not only emotional upheaval but logistical challenges as well.
FAQ
Why is Excel Academy closing?
Excel Academy is closing due to financial challenges including declining enrollment, costs associated with relocating during the COVID-19 pandemic, and changes in budget allocations that have impacted charter schools.
What happens to the students enrolled at Excel Academy?
Students enrolled at Excel Academy will be placed in their designated home schools by Prince George’s County Public Schools. Additionally, teachers from Excel Academy will be reassigned to other district schools.
How will families receive more information?
Families can expect to receive further communications from Prince George’s County Public Schools regarding school placement details and the next steps as the situation progresses.
Chart: Key Features of Excel Academy Closure
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Closure Date | August 21, 2025, just four days before the school year begins. |
| Enrollment | Almost 500 students from kindergarten to eighth grade. |
| Programs Offered | Academically rigorous International Baccalaureate program. |
| Support for Families | Teachers reassigned, students placed in home schools, communication from PGCPS. |
| Founded | Established in 2005 as one of the early charter schools in the county. |
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Additional Resources
- WUSA9: Excel Academy Closure
- Wikipedia: Charter school
- NBC Washington: Prince George’s Charter School Closure
- Google Search: Excel Academy closure
- Fox 5 DC: Excel Academy Closes Before School Year
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- WJLA: Excel Academy Closure Details
- Google News: Prince George’s County school closures
- Washington Post: Excel Academy Closure
- DC News Now: Parents Frustrated by Closure
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