State Board Joins Back-to-School Tour at College Park Academy

The Maryland State Board of Education joined Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph and district leaders on a back-to-school visit to College Park Academy (CPA), one of the county’s top-performing public charter schools.

The stop highlighted CPA’s national recognition for academic excellence and innovative learning. The school was recently ranked the #1 high school in Prince George’s County and #16 in Maryland by U.S. News & World Report (2025). Last year, the College Board placed CPA on its AP School Honor Roll – Platinum Level, the highest distinction.

Maryland State Board of Education President Dr. Joshua Michael with CPA student and Principal.

Junior and student ambassador Faridat Ope guided the tour, walking visitors through classrooms and programs that reflect CPA’s focus on college and career readiness. Ope, who hopes to become a certified nurse anesthetist, credited the school’s advanced coursework and supportive environment with keeping her on track.

In one classroom, students held a lively discussion on college readiness, weighing what it takes to enter competitive universities and how to prepare for long-term success. 

Down the hall, a crime scene investigation lab gave students hands-on experience in applying the scientific method — an example of CPA’s inquiry-driven approach to learning.

Principal Dr. Gordon Libby underscored the school’s expectation that every student take Advanced Placement courses, beginning in ninth grade.

“We’ve set the standard — every student is expected to take AP courses,” Libby said. “That early exposure prepares them for college and beyond.”

CPA’s results reflect that vision:

• 100% of seniors completed at least one AP course.
  
  
• 74% of seniors scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam — an 11% increase over last year.
  
  
• 69% of seniors completed five or more AP exams, up 27% year over year.

CPA’s blended learning model combines face-to-face instruction with virtual platforms, creating flexible, student-centered pathways. A longstanding partnership with the University of Maryland gives students access to mentorships, research, and early college opportunities.

The school’s mission extends beyond academics. Leaders emphasize equity, access, and strong student-teacher relationships that help foster a diverse and supportive learning community.

CPA By the Numbers

• Grades: 6–12
  
  
• Enrollment: 681 students
  
  
• Mission: College Park Academy provides all students the opportunity to learn at their own pace while accelerating and earning up to 60 college credits, including UMD, and, holistically prepares them for admission into the top colleges and universities in the country.