News Summary

Excel Academy Public Charter School in Fort Washington, Maryland, has unexpectedly closed just days before the new school year. The charter surrender has left nearly 500 students and families in distress, facing challenges in finding new educational placements. The Prince George’s County Public Schools are working to facilitate student transitions, while the SEED/Excel organization cites financial difficulties as the reason for this sudden decision.

Fort Washington, Maryland – Excel Academy Public Charter School, located in Prince George’s County, has announced its closure just four days prior to the start of the 2025-2026 school year. This unexpected decision came after the school officially surrendered its charter on August 21, causing distress among parents and students who were preparing for the new academic year.

Nearly 500 students, ranging from kindergarten to eighth grade, were enrolled at Excel Academy, which had established itself as a rigorous educational institution emphasizing the International Baccalaureate program. The abrupt closure has left families in a state of shock, particularly as many had already purchased uniforms and school supplies for their children.

Parents, deeply affected by the news, have voiced their concerns over the challenges of finding alternative educational placements at such short notice. One parent described the emotional turmoil of her eighth-grade son, who faces the daunting task of adjusting to a new school environment in his final year before transitioning to high school. Another parent expressed apprehension about identifying suitable middle and elementary schools in the limited time available.

School District Response

The Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) district has confirmed that teachers from Excel Academy will be reassigned to other district schools. Meanwhile, students will be placed in their designated home schools to ensure continuity in their education. In recognition of the impact of this sudden closure, the district’s leadership has committed to facilitating a seamless transition for affected families and staff.

Reasons for Closure

The SEED/Excel nonprofit organization, which operated the school, cited multiple financial challenges leading to this decision. These include issues such as declining enrollment, costs incurred from relocation amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and adverse budget changes which have disproportionately affected charter schools in the region. The severity of these financial difficulties contributed significantly to the closure of the institution.

Historical Context

Excel Academy was founded in 2005, making it one of the first charter schools established in Prince George’s County. It gained recognition for its college-preparatory mission that aimed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for future academic success. Former students and parents have expressed feelings of uncertainty and distress following the announcement of the closure, reflecting on the school’s longstanding role in the community.

In light of the sudden closure, families will receive further communications from PGCPS detailing student placements and outlining the next steps they should take. The district’s response aims to address the urgent needs of students and support them through this unexpected transition. The impact of this closure serves as a reminder of the challenging landscape charter schools face, especially during periods of budgetary constraints.

As the community grapples with the implications of this closure, the focus remains on finding suitable educational solutions for the nearly 500 affected students and providing support to families navigating this significant change.

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Excel Academy Public Charter School Announces Sudden Closure