Delaware education officials have launched a formal investigation into a charter school in Sussex County after a significant decline in student enrollment raised concerns about the school’s financial stability, operations, and long-term viability.
The review focuses on the Bryan Allen Stevenson School of Excellence, a public charter school based in Georgetown, Delaware. State leaders initiated the review after determining that enrollment levels had fallen far below expectations outlined in the school’s charter application.
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Under Delaware law, a formal review allows education authorities to closely examine whether a charter school is complying with academic, financial, and organizational requirements.
Enrollment Decline Raises Financial Concerns
When the school opened in Fall 2024, it enrolled approximately 230 students across its middle and early high school grades. Over the following year, enrollment dropped to just 123 students, representing a decline of nearly 46 percent.
This sharp reduction is particularly concerning because charter school funding in Delaware is largely based on per-pupil enrollment. Fewer students directly translate into reduced state funding, which can impact staffing levels, student services, and day-to-day operations.
School leaders have acknowledged that lower enrollment has strained the budget and required staff members to take on multiple responsibilities.
What The State Is Reviewing
The state’s Charter School Accountability Committee has begun examining several key areas tied to the enrollment decline. These include:
- Financial management, including whether the school accurately reported enrollment figures in budget submissions
- Staffing capacity, particularly whether reduced staffing affects student support services
- Student services, such as mental health resources, nursing coverage, and support for homeless students
- Outstanding financial obligations, including unpaid vendor invoices reported late in 2025
Officials also noted that the school did not meet a previously stated target of 200 students, falling short by around 75 students. School administrators have said some budget projections did not initially reflect updated enrollment data but were later corrected and resubmitted.
Key Facts At A Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| School Name | Bryan Allen Stevenson School of Excellence |
| Location | Georgetown, Sussex County, Delaware |
| Enrollment At Opening | About 230 students |
| Current Enrollment | About 123 students |
| Enrollment Decline | Nearly 46% decrease |
| Grades Served | Middle school to early high school |
| Review Start | December 2025 |
| Public Hearing | January 26, 2026 |
| Final Decision Expected | March 19, 2026 |
Possible Outcomes Of The Review
Delaware’s charter school review process allows for several possible outcomes. If the school is found to be meeting expectations despite enrollment challenges, it may be allowed to continue operating without changes. If issues are identified, the state could impose corrective conditions or place the school on a form of probation.
In more serious cases, the state has the authority to recommend closure if a school cannot demonstrate financial sustainability or compliance with charter obligations. Any final decision will be made after reviewing documents, hearing public testimony, and evaluating the school’s improvement plans.
Why Enrollment Matters For Charter Schools
Unlike traditional public schools, charter schools must continuously demonstrate both academic value and financial sustainability. Enrollment plays a critical role in both areas. Low enrollment can signal community concerns, reduce available funding, and limit program offerings, creating a cycle that becomes difficult to reverse.
State officials emphasize that the goal of the review process is not punishment, but accountability and ensuring students receive a stable, high-quality education.
The investigation into the Bryan Allen Stevenson School of Excellence highlights how quickly low enrollment can place a charter school under state scrutiny.
With enrollment dropping from 230 to 123 students, Delaware officials are closely examining finances, staffing, and student services to determine whether the school can remain viable.
As the review continues through early 2026, the final decision will shape the school’s future and may serve as a broader lesson for charter schools facing similar enrollment challenges across the state.
FAQs
Why is Delaware investigating this charter school?
The investigation was launched due to a sharp decline in student enrollment, which raised concerns about financial stability and compliance with charter requirements.
How does low enrollment affect charter schools?
Charter schools receive funding based on the number of enrolled students. Lower enrollment means less funding, which can impact staffing, services, and overall operations.
When will a final decision be made?
State officials are expected to announce a final decision regarding the school’s future in March 2026, following a public hearing and full review process.