Baltimore Schools Nix Contract With Councilman’s Academy

The Baltimore school board decided not to renew the contract for a charter school in the Gay Street neighborhood co-founded by Councilman Carl Stokes, who represents Remington and parts of Charles Village.   

On Tuesday night, the board voted not to renew the The Bluford Drew Jemison STEM Academy’s contract because it has not made enough academic progress—although its unclear if the school will be closed, according to The Baltimore Sun.

The creation of the school, which opened in 2007, is listed as one of Stoke’s achievements on his 12th District page on the council’s website. The councilman served as the school’s chief operating officer prior to returning to the council.    

"In 2008, after only operating for one full year, Bluford Drew Jemison STEM Academy students scored above every traditional Baltimore City middle school in Maryland statewide testing," the councilman’s website touts.

The Baltimore Sun also reported that a 2010 audit of the school raised concerns about the schools finances and its ability to operate as a successful business. Stokes has been a champion of stricter auditing practices at City Hall.

Stokes was not immediately available for comment.