Premier Arts and Science Charter School in Harrisburg has decided not to reopen for the 2024-25 school year, following the Harrisburg School District’s decision to not renew the school’s charter. The district initiated proceedings earlier this year due to concerns such as academic underperformance, low staff retention, and non-compliant programs.
After a board meeting on June 27, it was announced that Premier would cease opposition to the proceedings and begin a “winding down” period. Premier’s President of its board of directors, Pamela Spencer, stated that the board felt it was in the best interest of families to assist them in finding a new school for the upcoming school year.
According to Pennsylvania Charter School Law, Premier will now follow a “winding down” process which includes creating a transition team to help students find new schools and employment opportunities for staff. While the school is in the process of closing, office hours will remain open and summer enrichment programs and extended school year services will continue as scheduled.
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 charter with certain conditions. Moving forward, school officials will work with internal and external resources to support students’ social-emotional health and wellness during this transition period.