AJE wants families to have the information they need to navigate a school closure successfully, which is why we are sharing these posts from the school and the DC PCSB regarding the closure of Hope Community PCS at the end of the year. Of course, AJE is always willing to help families navigate these decisions.

One of our favorite resources to assist with school selection is our effective questions-to-ask handout, which can help parents get a better understanding of a school’s experience and capacity so they can make an informed decision. Families can also always contact us at 202-678-8060 or by completing this inquiry form https://www.aje-dc.org/contact-us/.

DC PCSB – Hope Community PCS to Close at the End of the 2024–25 School Year

April 28, 2025

Last week, the Hope Community Public Charter School (PCS) Board of Trustees decided to relinquish the school’s charter, effective at the end of the 2024–25 school year. The final day for students will be June 3, and for staff, June 9.

Hope Community PCS, located in Ward 5, initially planned to continue operations under new charter conditions following the DC Public Charter School Board’s (DC PCSB) charter review and March Board vote. However, after further reflection, the Board of Trustees made the difficult decision to close the school.

Why This Decision Was Made

As part of our oversight responsibilities, DC PCSB conducts regular charter reviews to assess school performance against academic, financial, and operational standards. During Hope Community PCS’s review, DC PCSB found that the school had not met the necessary performance benchmarks. We offered a path forward through charter conditions, but ultimately, after careful consideration, the school’s Board of Trustees determined it was in the best interest of the school community to relinquish its charter rather than proceed with corrective measures.

We recognize that this decision has a significant and personal impact on students, families, and staff. DC PCSB is actively working with the Hope Community leadership team to ensure a smooth transition.

Supporting Students and Families

Hope Community PCS leadership has already shared the news with families, and a number of supports are being put in place:

School Fair: Hope Community PCS is hosting a school fair on Tuesday, April 29, from 3–6 p.m. at the school to help families explore new school options.
Family Outreach: DC PCSB family engagement coordinators will contact all students and families directly with information about available school options for the upcoming school year.

Supporting Staff

Recognizing the impact on staff, two hiring fairs are scheduled for May 17 and June 7 to connect Hope Community PCS employees with new opportunities. Details will be shared directly with staff and on social media.

School Board of Trustees – Letter to Families – Important School Update

Friday, April 25th, 2025

Dear Hope Community Families, Students, Staff, and Community,

It is with heavy hearts that we write to share the decision to close Hope Community – Tolson at the end of the 2024-2025 school year. This decision did not come lightly, and we deeply regret that we are not
bringing better news. Ultimately, we believe this is the most responsible path forward for our community.

Following a thorough review of school-wide data – including enrollment patterns and academic
performance – and the conditions set by the DC Public Charter School Board during our 20-year review on March 17, 2025, we have concluded that meeting the imposed requirements within the given timeline is not feasible. Continuing to operate under these conditions would put undue burden on our students, families, and staff, and would prevent us from delivering the high-quality learning environment our community deserves.

Though this outcome is deeply disappointing, our commitment to this community remains unwavering. For our families and students, your well-being and academic continuity are our highest priorities. We are
actively working to support you through the school matching and transition process for the 2025–2026
academic year. Information regarding a school fair hosted on campus is forthcoming.
To our dedicated teachers and staff, thank you for your resilience and care. You are the heart of Hope
Community, and we will provide resources and support to navigate your next steps.

During this transition and through the closure, Justin Rydstrom will serve as Acting CEO of Hope
Community to support our school leadership team and community. Justin has served in this role before,
bringing seasoned leadership experience in DC charter schools to the team.

Since 2006, Hope Community – Tolson has served as a PK-8 campus committed to empowering leaders
of today and tomorrow. We have prided ourselves in our STEAM-focused learning program, engaging in
experiential learning, problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity. We hope that our students and staff
remain Eagles at heart and continue to soar!

We are incredibly grateful for this community. Throughout the remainder of the school year, we will
remain in close communication to ensure this transition is as thoughtful and seamless as possible.

Sincerely,
The Board of Trustees

Kerry Smith
Shereefat Balogun
Anisa Bailey
Allison Barr
Eric Johnson

Click Here to Download the Letter

School – Family Follow Up

Dear Families,

Thank you for your continued partnership and consistency throughout this school year. As we navigate this period of transition at HOPE PCS, your support has been invaluable.

We want to provide the following important updates regarding your scholar:

Attendance through May 8, 2025: The DC CAPE test tracks student performance throughout their academic career. It is essential that all scholars continue attending school through May 8 to ensure accurate records and data as they transition to future school placement.

End-of-Year Ceremonies and Celebrations: These events will proceed as planned to honor and celebrate our scholars’ achievements.

Enrollment Fairs: To support you in finding a new school for your scholar, we will be hosting enrollment fairs on campus.

The first enrollment fair will be held on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the school cafeteria.

As we continue through this transition, please direct all questions and communication to our Acting CEO, Justin Rydstrom, to ensure clear and consistent information:

Email: justin@cercis.llc

Phone: (202) 281-0001 (call or text)

Thank you again for your dedication to our school community. We appreciate your support during this time of change.

Warm regards,
HOPE PCS