by Baltimore, Maryland — Baltimore City Public Schools has announced a temporary delay in plans to relocate students from New Song Academy, a charter school in the Sandtown-Winchester community, giving district leaders additional time to reassess whether students can remain in their current building for the rest of the school year.
The decision follows weeks of concern from families and community members after the district initially planned to move students to the Harlem Park school building, located about half a mile away on North Gilmor Street, beginning January 7.
Why the Relocation Was Paused
City schools officials said the delay allows the district to reevaluate available options, including whether it is feasible for students to remain at New Song Academy through the end of the academic year.
In a statement, the district acknowledged that the pause was influenced by community feedback, noting that families and staff raised concerns about disruption to students’ learning and daily routines.
“The delay of the relocation is in response to community feedback and our shared preference to minimize disruption to students, staff, and families,” the district said.
However, officials cautioned that the delay does not guarantee students will remain in the current building long-term.
Building and Financial Issues at the Center of the Decision
Last month, Baltimore City Public Schools CEO Dr. Sonja Santelises outlined serious concerns in a letter to staff and families, citing both building conditions and financial instability tied to the school’s operator, the New Song Community Learning Center.
According to the district, the school’s roof and HVAC systems are deteriorating and are at the end of their lifespans. While some repairs have been made, officials warned the systems may not last through the remainder of the current school year or into school year 2025–26.
The district also raised alarms about the operator’s finances, stating it uncovered previously undisclosed financial obligations tied to the building.
Can Students Stay at New Song for the Year?
District leaders say they are currently evaluating whether students can safely remain in the building through the end of the year or whether a relocation to Harlem Park would be necessary during the February intersession, from February 16 to 20.
Officials emphasized that unresolved issues remain, including legal questions, uncertainty around the operator’s finances, and the age and condition of the facility.
“There are significant questions about whether it will be feasible to remain at the current location following this delay,” the district stated. “During this time, we will also clarify operational responsibilities to ensure continuity of services for students and staff.”
The New Song Academy school year is scheduled to end on July 14, 2026.
Financial Troubles Surface After Charter Renewal
New Song Academy’s charter was renewed in January 2025, but the renewal came with strict conditions due to ongoing financial concerns. The operator was required to submit a funding plan and meet additional requirements by July 31 to keep the charter in good standing.
According to Angela Alvarez, senior executive director of the Office of New Initiatives, the district later discovered that the school’s financial situation was far worse than previously known.
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“And deeper, we dug into their financials. We learned things we did not know,” Alvarez said.
District officials said the operator had not been paying bills, including utilities, and had failed to properly maintain the building. The extent of the issues reportedly became clear only in late October or early November.
Families Push Back on Mid-Year Move
Parents and community members have been vocal in opposing the relocation, arguing that moving students mid-year would be disruptive and unfair.
“This was just another school that’s being shut down,” said Hope Crosby, president of the New Song Academy Parent-Teacher Organization.
Families also expressed concerns about transportation and attendance, noting that many students currently walk to New Song Academy. While Harlem Park is nearby, parents worry the longer walk could lead to lower attendance and increased safety risks.
Others raised concerns about tensions between neighborhoods.
“We’re now asking students to go into an atmosphere that may be hostile,” said Lamar Richards, president of the New Song Academy Alumni Association.
What Happens Next
Baltimore City Schools says it will continue discussions with families while reviewing safety, financial, and operational factors before making a final decision. For now, the future location of New Song Academy students remains uncertain as the district weighs its next steps.
How do you feel about delaying the relocation, and what do you think is the best solution for students? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
