S.U.R.G.E. (Scholars United to Rise, Grow, and Excel) Preparatory Academy is a community-driven charter school initiative, serving grades pre-k through 3, that Baltimore City urgently needs. We believe every child deserves a quality education that builds critical thinking, confidence, global awareness, and a deep connection to community. But right now, too many Baltimore children are falling behind in foundational skills like reading that unlock future success.

Here’s the reality Baltimore families are facing:

On Maryland’s state assessments, a large share of Baltimore City students are not reading at grade level. In recent years, fewer than one-third of students scored proficient in English Language Arts statewide assessments, meaning most students are struggling to read at the level expected for their age.

On national assessments, Baltimore City students’ average reading scores fall below the large city average at both grade 4 and grade 8, showing persistent gaps that affect long-term opportunity.

Literacy challenges extend beyond our schools. Surveys of adult skills in Maryland show many adults read at levels that limit everyday tasks and career readiness, a reflection of systemic gaps that begin early and compound over time.

When children read well and think critically, they are more likely to graduate, pursue careers, vote, volunteer, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. When literacy struggles persist, the impact is citywide: fewer job opportunities, lower wages, increased economic vulnerability, and widening inequity.

That’s why we’re launching S.U.R.G.E. Preparatory Academy.

Our school will:

• Strengthen foundational literacy and academic achievement

• Cultivate confident learners with global awareness

• Teach young people to be leaders who care deeply about Baltimore

• Build pathways from school success to community success

At S.U.R.G.E., scholars will learn to hold autonomy in one hand and responsibility in the other!

This is bigger than one school. It’s about building a Baltimore where students:

•   Read with skill
•   Think with purpose
•   Lead with integrity
•   Serve globally

Your signature on this petition shows that Baltimore families and community supporters are ready for a new model, one that lifts academic outcomes, strengthens the future of our city and founded by Maryland narratives!

Sign today to support S.U.R.G.E. Preparatory Academy. Together, we can champion educational excellence and help Baltimore become a beacon of opportunity for every child.

Sign now and stand with students, families, and community leaders calling for real progress in education.