Fort Washington, Maryland, August 24, 2025
News Summary
In a surprising announcement, Excel Academy Public Charter School in Fort Washington, Maryland, has closed just days before the new school year begins. The school surrendered its charter due to financial challenges, impacting nearly 500 students from kindergarten to eighth grade. Parents are left scrambling to find new educational placements as concerns grow over the transition. The local school district has pledged to support families during this unexpected closure and help with student placements.
Fort Washington, Maryland: Excel Academy Public Charter School Closes Days Before School Year Begins
Excel Academy Public Charter School, located in Fort Washington, Maryland, has announced its closure just four days before the commencement of the 2025-2026 academic year. The school surrendered its charter on August 21, resulting in a significant disappointment among parents and students who were preparing to return.
Nearly 500 students, ranging from kindergarten through eighth grade, were enrolled at Excel Academy, which was known for its emphasis on the academically rigorous International Baccalaureate program. Many families are in shock, having recently purchased school uniforms and planned the upcoming school year with high hopes.
Parents expressed sadness and concern as they now face the need to find new educational placements for their children. Some parents reported that their children, especially those in the final year before high school, will struggle with the transition to new schools. One parent, whose son has attended Excel since kindergarten, indicated that the sudden closure poses significant challenges for him as he prepares for high school.
The closure has raised urgent concerns about finding alternative schools for the affected students before the approaching school start date of Tuesday. In response to the situation, Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) confirmed that teachers from the closed Academy will be reassigned to other schools within the district. Students will be placed in their designated home schools as part of the transition plan.
The SEED/Excel nonprofit, which operated Excel Academy, cited financial challenges as the primary reason for the closure. This included enrollment shortfalls, rising costs associated with relocating during the COVID-19 pandemic, and budget changes that have disproportionately affected charter schools. In light of these circumstances, SEED/Excel expressed deep regret regarding the abrupt closure and has pledged to assist families in securing alternative school placements.
Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph stated that steps will be undertaken to facilitate a smooth transition for affected families and staff members, highlighting the commitment to support those impacted by the closure.
Excel Academy was established in 2005 and was among the first charter schools in Prince George’s County. The school has been recognized for its college-preparatory mission, and many families are grappling with uncertainty and distress over the sudden news of its closure, reflecting a community’s investment in the school over the years.
Moving forward, families can expect further communications from PGCPS regarding student placements and the next steps as they adapt to this unexpected change.
FAQ
Why did Excel Academy close?
Excel Academy closed due to financial challenges, including enrollment shortfalls and the costs associated with moving during the pandemic. These issues have negatively impacted charter schools, leading to the decision to surrender its charter.
What will happen to the students affected by the closure?
Students from Excel Academy will be placed in their designated home schools, while teachers from the closed school will be reassigned to other district schools to ensure educational continuity.
How can families get support during this transition?
Families will receive additional communications from Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) regarding placement details and support services available during this transition.
Key Features of Excel Academy Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Fort Washington, Maryland |
| Enrollment | Approximately 500 students (Kindergarten to 8th grade) |
| Program Focus | International Baccalaureate |
| Closure Date | August 21, 2025 |
| Reason for Closure | Financial challenges, enrollment shortfalls |
| Support for Families | PGCPS to assist with new placements |
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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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