In a surprise move, the Premier Arts and Science Charter School in Harrisburg has announced that it will not reopen for the 2024-25 school year. This decision comes as the school has chosen not to oppose charter non-renewal proceedings issued by the Harrisburg School District. The district had found issues such as academic underperformance, low staff retention, and non-compliant programs during a renewal evaluation period.
The school’s board of directors voted to cease opposition to the proceedings and begin the dissolution process immediately. This decision was made to best assist families in finding a new school for the upcoming school year. Premier Arts and Science Charter School must now follow a “winding down” process as per Pennsylvania Charter School Law. This includes creating transition teams to help students and staff find new placements.
This is not the first time that the district has initiated non-renewal proceedings against Premier. The first time was in 2018, but an agreement was reached to renew the school’s charter with certain conditions. As the school begins the closure process, its office hours will remain the same and summer programs will continue as scheduled. School officials are also committed to supporting students’ social-emotional health and wellness during this transition period.
The closure of Premier Arts and Science Charter School is likely to have a significant impact on families in Harrisburg who have been attending this charter school for years. Many parents are worried about their children’s future education prospects without this particular institution.
However, some experts predict that this closure could pave way for new educational opportunities in Harrisburg that better cater to students’ needs and expectations.
The Harrisburg School District has been working closely with Premier Arts and Science Charter School’s administrators throughout this process, ensuring that all parties involved have been treated fairly.
As of now, no details have been released about where students will be transferred or what kind of support they will receive during this transition period.
It remains unclear what caused these issues at Premier Arts and Science Charter School specifically, but it is clear that this decision marks a significant moment for education in Harrisburg.
