WOLFE STREET ACADEMY
About Wolfe Street Academy
Wolfe Street Academy (WSA), located in Baltimore’s historic Upper Fells Point neighborhood, has a long and proud tradition of serving its community. Originally opened in 1852 as Public School #23, the school has evolved alongside the neighborhood it serves. After joining the Baltimore Curriculum Project in 1996, WSA became a neighborhood charter school in 2007, deepening its commitment to local families.
Today, Wolfe Street Academy (Pre-K through 5th) proudly serves children living within the zone, which includes the Upper Fells Point and Fells Point neighborhoods. Families living in this zone may enroll at any time without a lottery. Those living outside the zone are welcome to apply through the city-run charter lottery.
A Neighborhood School
Upper Fells Point, also known historically as Fell’s Prospect or Spanish Town, is a culturally rich and diverse neighborhood shaped by generations of immigrants. From European settlers in the 19th century to a vibrant Latino community today, the area thrives on its mix of cultures, cuisines, and community spirit.
WSA is deeply woven into this fabric. The school celebrates and supports its immigrant families while fostering connection and pride through public art and community projects, including the historic Peely-Wheely sculpture and the mural Memoria y Esperanza (Memory and Hope) honoring WSA families and cultures.
The original Public School #23 building stood at Wolfe and Gough Streets from 1852 until its demolition in the 1970s. The current Wolfe Street Academy building, constructed in 1975, continues the school’s legacy of serving as a hub for learning, community engagement, and cultural celebration in Upper Fells Point.
School Snapshoot
Founded: 1852
BCP Partnership: 1996
Charter Conversion: 2007
Grades Served: Prek-5
Feeder School: WSA students can automatically continue to Commodore John Rodgers School for middle school.
Enrollment: ~250 students
Mascot: Wolf (James)
School Color: Navy blue
Focus on restorative practices and positive school climate
Title 1 school serving students from underserved communities
After school programs and enrichment
Strong community school partnership with Elev8 Baltimore
Charter Status
Wolfe Street Academy converted to a neighborhood charter school in 2007. During its last renewal in 2020, the Board of School Commissioners approved to renew Wolfe Street’s charter for eight years. Its next renewal will be in 2028.
