The mission of Paul Public Charter School is to educate our students and to develop in them the capacity to be responsible citizens, independent thinkers, and leaders. Paul PCS embodies the belief that all children can learn delivered within the context of a nurturing and structured school environment. Paul's rooftop steeple is a neighborhood beacon, a symbol of welcome to the diverse students from across the District of Columbia who seek a program offering academic rigor in a character-building culture. Paul was awarded its charter status in 2000, becoming the first conversion public charter school in Washington, DC (and only DCPS to charter conversion). Named after a pioneering DC educator, Edward Paul, and operating as a DC Public School since 1930, Paul has a strong tradition of academic excellence and community involvement. As the founder of Paul PCS, Cecile R. Middleton spent two years steadily challenging the status quo, and gained nation-wide respect as a pioneer in the charter movement. As a trailblazer in education for decades in the city, Ms. Middleton spent her final chapter at Paul and ensured that Paul scholars were given an opportunity to excel beyond meager expectations. Although she passed in 2008, Ms. Middleton left a legacy of excellence, as Paul continues to provide its scholars with an exceptional education. The Cecile R. Middleton Ninth Grade Academy opened its doors in 2009, as Paul expanded its program to offer freshmen scholars an opportunity to successfully transition into high school.In 2000, the school was awarded its charter becoming the first conversion public charter school in DC. Today, Paul PCS is growing into a full fledged 6-12 college preparatory charter school and we're excited about the future!