Our Story
Founded in 2003, Excel Academy is a network of five public charter schools serving approximately 1,400 students in grades 5–12 across East Boston and Chelsea in Massachusetts, as well as one school in Rhode Island. Our mission is to close the opportunity gap by providing a rigorous, inclusive education to communities historically underserved, with 86% of our students identifying as Latino or African American and nearly 80% from low-income families. Excel students consistently rank among the top performers in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, including students with disabilities and English language learners who exceed state averages. With an extended school day and year, a focus on identity, equity, and social-emotional growth, and the support of our College Access and Post-Secondary Success (CAPS) team, we prepare every student to thrive in college, career, and life.
OUR Mission
Excel Academy Charter Schools prepares students to succeed
in high school and college, apply their learning to solve relevant problems,
and engage productively in their communities.
About Excel & Our Charter Schools
Charter schools are public, tuition-free schools that families choose for their children.
They operate independently under a performance contract that outlines their mission and goals, but remain accountable for academic results and financial stability.
Funding is provided on a per-pupil basis with public dollars, though in many states, charter schools receive less than traditional district schools and often no facility funding. In Massachusetts, charter schools are overseen by the Department of Elementary, (DESE), and in Rhode Island, by the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE).
Excel Academy’s Impact On Public Education
A student who gets into Excel Academy through our blind lottery is four times as likely to graduate from college as a student attending a comparative district school.
88% of Excel Academy alumni are engaged in a productive post-secondary plan
Approximately 94% of our 11th and 12th-grade students complete at least one advanced course, which is near twice the statewide average of 65%
74.5% of our senior class earn a 3 or more on at least 1 AP exam.
Our CAPS Program
At Excel, we know the finish line isn’t just a high school diploma, it’s long-term success in college, career, and life. Our College Access and Post-Secondary Success (CAPS) team works with students starting in 5th grade through graduation and beyond, helping them explore their identities, set meaningful goals, and navigate college and career pathways. From campus visits and resume building to one-on-one counseling, financial aid guidance, and ongoing alumni support, CAPS ensures every Excel student is prepared to thrive in the path they choose after high school
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