What is a charter school?
Charter schools in Maryland are unique public schools that are operated by a non-profit foundation. They are allowed the freedom to be more innovative while being held accountable for advancing student achievement. Charter Schools are public schools and therefore, they are open to all children, do not charge tuition and do not have special entrance requirements. Charter laws vary considerably from state to state; for more on MD Charter Schools please click here.
Why choose WPCS?
You feel your child would benefit from more time spent outdoors, more time learning by doing, and smaller classes. WPCS fosters a partnership among parents, teachers, and students. We have created an environment in which parents are partners, teachers are allowed to innovate, and students are provided the structure and flexibility they need to learn.
Where is WPCS is located?
6946 Dogwood Rd., Woodlawn MD 21244
What is the schedule?
WPCS is open from 8:10 am-3:15 pm Monday- Tuesday and Thursday through Friday. On Wednesdays WPCS holds class from 8:10 am -2:00. This early closure on Wednesday allows our team group planning time to facilitate multi-disciplinary projects. Aftercare will be available. The school day on M,T, Th and F has been extended by 15 minutes a day to offset this change. (Students will still receive the same instructional time they would have at any MD public school)
What grades are offered?
WPCS currently offers Kindergarten through 5th Grade. We will begin our expansion to middle school in Academic Year 2023-2024 with the addition of 6th grade and then add a grade every year to grow with our students up to the 8th grade.
How do I enroll?
There are no admission requirements beyond residency in Baltimore County. Watershed Public Charter School will accept applications from all students living within Baltimore County and students will be selected via lottery. Please fill out this form to enroll. The application opens annually in late November for the following school year.
How much does it cost?
Just like traditional public schools, charter schools are funded by local, state and federal tax dollars based on student enrollment. They are free, do not have special entrance requirements and do not charge tuition.
How does the lottery work?
If more families apply for for admission than there are available slots, we will hold a lottery. The lottery is held annually in early February. All families will be notified of lottery results in March of the same year. If your student currently attends WPCS you do not need to reapply. If you have another student who does not currently attend, but would like to, please submit an application for that student.
What curriculum will WPCS use?
WPCS will use innovative experiential, hands-on curriculum in core subjects and link disciplines together into larger multidisciplinary projects. WPCS values play, exploration, imagination and unstructured outdoor activity. We will use natural environment and greater community as a tool for learning. See more here.
Is there transportation?
At this time there is not, charter schools only receive a per pupil allotment, they do not receive funds for facilities or transportation.
How is WPCS held accountable to Maryland Educational Standards?
Public charter schools are required to meet all state and federal education standards, just like traditional public schools. In addition, they are judged on how well they meet student achievement goals as defined by their charter contracts. WPCS has established rigorous academic, financial and managerial standards.
Is there after care offered?
WPCS aftercare is provided by the YMCA of Central MD. Aftercare takes place at WPCS.
Is there be programs offered for students with disabilities?
While all types of learners benefit from the hands-on experiential teaching and learning model that WPCS uses, it is especially meaningful for students with disabilities to do rather than just hear or read. Watershed Public Charter School is an all-inclusive public school and will operate according to federal, state, and district law to provide a quality education to every child. This means that all provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) will be followed such that every student with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) receives an education specific to and appropriate for their needs. WPCS will employ state credentialed special educators to deliver services who will plan and co-teach alongside general educators in order for all students to achieve full potential. Any related service offered at a BCPS school will also be available at WPCS.