Harrisburg’s Premier Arts and Science Charter School announces closure

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.