Senator Shaneka Henson Praises New Village Academy as School Welcomes Students for New Year

Maryland State Senator Shaneka Henson is praising New Village Academy and the people behind the school, saying she was encouraged to see high school students excited about beginning the new academic year.

In a social media post, Senator Henson reflected on a recent visit to New Village Academy and the enthusiasm she witnessed among students preparing for the school year.

“Last week, I experienced something truly amazing—high school students who are genuinely excited to start the new school year,” Senator Henson wrote.

Related: New Village Academy Celebrates Opening of New Public Charter High School at Annapolis Mall

Senator Henson thanked New Village Academy for creating an environment where young people are excited about “learning, growing and what’s ahead,” calling the school an “incredible addition” to the community.

She also recognized visionary leader Romey Pittman, the school’s founding board, consulting team, educators and others who helped bring the academy to life.

“I’m incredibly proud of what you’ve built—and even more excited for the students who get to call New Village Academy their school,” Senator Henson wrote. “Here’s to an amazing school year!”

New Village Academy responded to Senator Henson’s remarks by thanking her for what the school described as consistent support and advocacy.

“Senator Shaneka Henson is a rockstar! All about the young people in our community,” New Village Academy stated. “Thank you for your consistent support and advocacy for New Village Academy and for education that makes a difference across our city, county, and state!”

The school also noted that a limited number of enrollment opportunities remain available for the current school year.

“There are still a few spaces available! It’s not too late to join us for this school year,” New Village Academy stated.

The exchange highlighted the support surrounding New Village Academy as students begin the school year and the school continues welcoming students into its new academic community.

New Village Academy officially celebrated the opening of its tuition-free public charter high school on August 18 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new facility inside Annapolis Mall, following years of planning, fundraising and collaboration with Anne Arundel County Public Schools. The school welcomed students for its first day of classes on August 25.

Founded and led by Romey Pittman, New Village Academy was created as an alternative high school option for Anne Arundel County students, with an educational model centered on weekly internships, hands-on Community Action Projects, individualized support and real-world learning connected to students’ interests and future careers. Each student is also assigned to a small “Crew” led by an adult who serves as an advocate and primary family contact throughout high school.

The August 18 celebration brought together education leaders, elected officials, families and community partners, including AACPS Superintendent Dr. Mark Bedell, County Executive Steuart Pittman and Senator Shaneka Henson. The school serves Anne Arundel County students in grades 9 through 12 and has said enrollment opportunities remain available for the 2026–27 school year.

To learn more about the New Village Academy, email info@newvillageacademy.org, or click here to visit the school website.