Overview

Selecting a site for a new school is an important step in the planning process. Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) maintains a land bank of potential school sites acquired over time to help meet future enrollment needs. When suitable sites are not available, PGCPS may identify and evaluate additional properties as growth and educational needs evolve.

Each potential site is evaluated based on factors such as location, projected enrollment, accessibility, environmental considerations, infrastructure, and the ability to support the educational program.

Site Selection Process

The site selection process is conducted in partnership with County and State agencies to ensure each proposed location meets planning, environmental, and educational requirements.

The process generally includes the following steps:

1. Identify the Need
  PGCPS determines the need for a new school based on enrollment projections, capacity needs, and educational priorities.
2. Evaluate Potential Sites
  A Site Selection Subcommittee reviews potential locations. The committee includes representatives from the PGCPS Department of Capital Programs, the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), and Prince George's County Government.
3. Recommend a Preferred Site
  The Subcommittee evaluates potential sites and recommends a preferred location to the School Construction Project Team.
4. Board of Education Review
  The Board of Education receives information on the sites considered and the recommended location before taking action. Before final Board action, the recommended site is presented publicly, and community members have an opportunity to provide feedback.
5. State Review and Approval
  Following Board approval, the selected site is submitted for review through the State Clearinghouse and the Maryland Interagency Commission on School Construction (IAC) as part of the State approval process.