LEONARDTOWN, Md. – Following a period of uncertainty and significant developments, Leonard Hall Junior Naval Academy (LHJNA) will remain open and is actively seeking a new location to continue its operations, yet has still not found one. This update comes after previous announcements and actions that had left the school’s future in question.
In January, LHJNA faced potential closure due to the need for over $500,000 in repairs to its current building, which were beyond the school’s financial capabilities. On January 18, the school announced its impending shutdown and the search for a new facility. The Board of Commissioners of St. Mary’s County ratified a letter to end the lease agreement, though they allowed the school to occupy the space until the end of the school year and pledged to assist in finding a new location. Despite this, the school decided to close immediately.
In a surprising turn of events, a special meeting was held on January 26 where a new Board of Trustees was elected, leading to a reversal of the closure decision. The new Board, led by President Christine Quade, announced the school would remain open, a move welcomed by the community. The Board sent an email to families, staff, and media, detailing the new leadership and their commitment to keeping the school operational.
The latest update this week from Amie M. Milan, the current President of the Board of Trustees, confirms that LHJNA is relocating, but still have yet to find an official location. The school is evaluating several new locations that will meet its needs without sacrificing its academic, military, and leadership focus. Despite the challenges, the school’s primary objective has been to ensure stability for its students during this academic year.
Milan highlighted ongoing support from local authorities, including the County Commissioners and the Commissioners of Leonardtown, who are aiding in the search for a new facility. The Board has been providing regular updates through weekly newsletters to keep parents, guardians, and staff informed.
Excitingly, LHJNA will begin Open Enrollment for the next academic year next week. An Open House event is scheduled for June 8 from 10am-1pm at the current facility, inviting current and prospective families to engage with the school community and learn more about the plans moving forward.
“There is a lot of misinformation out there,” Milan told The BayNet. “LHJNA would welcome and be grateful for all the community support we can garner.”
As LHJNA navigates this period of transition, the school’s leadership remains dedicated to maintaining the high standards and values that have defined the academy for over a century. Community support and understanding will be crucial as LHJNA embarks on this new chapter.
For ongoing updates and information, contact the school directly or attend the upcoming Open House.
Contact our news desk at news@thebaynet.com.
Wonder what happened to outspoken president Christine Quade? She didn’t even make it 6 months before turning it over to someone else?
The previous BOT should be ashamed of themselves. They kept everything secret and made decisions that affect the school body behind closed doors.
The Head Master during that time shouldn’t be allowed to manage a school yard let alone a school.
My child went there during previous administrations and was incredible. If my child had gone to a public school they wouldn’t have stood a chance and would have been a statistic. The administration knew my child as a person not just a number and ensured my child had the best education they could possibly get. Mr. Guy ensured my child had a strong sense of responsibility for their actions but also gave them positive feedback when doing well.
My family is truly indebted to the school and it breaks our heart just imagining how the previous BOT made such horrible decisions that benefitted no one other than themselves.
Put it in the abandoned Shoppers in Leonardtown.
Just don’t let Tommy McKay manage it..
Victor Hodge LHJNA 65′ for president of school!