PGCPS Shares Next Steps in Dora Kennedy and Robert Goddard Co-Location Plan
By Robert Nelson - Published July 21, 2025
Prince George’s County Public Schools is committed to transparency, collaboration, and high-quality learning environments as it advances the co-location of Dora Kennedy French Immersion (DKFI) and Robert Goddard Montessori School (RGMS). This significant change is based on a district feasibility study, which revealed that the current DKFI building is no longer suitable for long-term use due to its aging infrastructure and considerable repair costs. PGCPS has decided to relocate the DKFI program and decommission the existing facility to ensure students and staff have access to a safe and modern campus.
Understanding that transitions can be challenging for families, a town hall was held in June 2025 at the RGMS auditorium to provide support and keep everyone informed. The event brought together both school communities to learn more about the move, ask questions, and share feedback. Leaders from PGCPS, including Chief Operating Officer Dr. Charoscar Coleman, DKFI Principal James Spence II, RGMS Principal Deatrice Womack, and several members of the Capital Programs and Supporting Services teams, provided information about the relocation timeline and the proposed two-story modular expansion. They also discussed how shared spaces, such as the cafeteria, gym, and media center, will be managed. DKFI is scheduled to move into the RGMS campus by July 15, 2026. The expansion will add 18 classrooms and increase campus capacity to nearly 1,450 students, with upgrades to outdoor spaces and security features to support both programs.
During the town hall, parents were given the chance to voice their concerns directly to district leaders. One key issue raised was the proposed hub stop transportation pilot program, which consolidates student pick-up and drop-off at centralized locations. While the goal of the hub stop model is to address countywide transportation challenges, parents expressed concerns about adding this change during an already significant transition. In response, PGCPS confirmed that DKFI students will not participate in the pilot program. This decision reflects the district’s commitment to listening to families and adjusting plans when necessary.
To further support families, PGCPS has published a detailed Q&A document on both school websites and the Capital Programs Swing Planning page. The document addresses many common questions about the transition, covering topics such as classroom assignments, staff continuity, student emotional support, transportation logistics, before and aftercare programs, and how each school’s unique identity will be preserved in a shared building. It reflects PGCPS’s ongoing efforts to communicate openly, plan thoughtfully, and involve the community every step of the way.
The next town hall is scheduled for October 2025. Families will receive more detailed information about logistics, classroom placements, and finalized transportation plans. In the meantime, community members are encouraged to stay engaged, review the available resources, and continue providing feedback as the district prepares for this important transition.
