Sussex Academy, a tuition-free K–12 public charter school in Georgetown, welcomed just over 1,180 students to the 2025-26 academic year during a staggered two-day start.

As is school tradition, students in kindergarten, sixth and ninth grades began school Sept. 2, with all grades reporting Sept. 3.

“Our staggered start helps students in key transition years,” said Head of School Kyle Bentley. “Our kindergarten, sixth and ninth grade student leaders get the extra support and time they need to adjust to the new learning environment. It’s also a great way to create routines, build relationships and set everyone up for the best year yet at Sussex Academy.”

This academic year is also the charter school’s 25th anniversary; in 2000, the academy opened as Sussex Academy of Arts and Sciences, serving grades 6-8, and was the first charter school in Sussex County.

Before the new year began, Sussex Academy hosted open houses at its elementary and secondary campuses, followed by a kick-off celebration at The Nest adjacent to the secondary athletic fields on Aug 28.

Important upcoming dates include the first inservice, no-student day on Friday, Sept. 14; followed by back-to-school nights at the secondary campus on Monday, Sept. 29 and at the elementary campus Wednesday, Oct. 1; and an elementary family fun day set for Saturday, Oct. 4.