WESLEY CHAPEL — One month before the first day of classes, Pasco County's newest charter school has informed parents it won't be opening this year after all.
"Despite our best efforts, the board was unable to finalize negotiations on our facility lease and has made the heartbreaking decision to delay our opening until the 2016-17 school year," Garden Montessori Charter School's leadership posted on its website. "We have met with Pasco County School District and have officially applied for a 'planning year' for the 2015-16 school year."
The School Board has granted planning status to charter schools in the past. That action does not extend a school's contract. It simply allows the school to keep its charter active while not fully operational.
Garden Montessori, which also operates a private preschool in Wesley Chapel, won a five-year contract in mid February and held its student lottery in March. It had anticipated opening with 280 students in kindergarten through third grade, and growing over time.
District officials are working with families to ensure children's placement into district elementary schools. The charter school plans to reopen its admission process in January. All students must reapply to secure a seat, according to the school's website.