New Harmony is Closing
Following the announcement that New Harmony High School will close at the end of the 2025–2026 school year, we know that students and families have questions about what this transition means. This page is intended to provide clear information and ongoing updates as we work to support every student in identifying their next school and ensuring a smooth transition.
Our top priority remains supporting our students and families, maintaining a positive and rigorous learning environment for the remainder of the school year, and honoring the community that has been built at New Harmony over the past seven years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) (updated 3/12/26)
Why is New Harmony closing?
Our Board chose to proactively relinquish the charter to ensure a deliberate, student-first transition. To remain open, schools must maintain a “C” score or higher. Our 2024 score was a “D.” We believe our students deserve the highest level of academic growth, and by moving sooner, we can secure priority placement for our students in high-performing schools.
When is the last day of school?
New Harmony will remain fully operational through May 2026.
Does my student have to find a new school alone?
No. We are working in direct partnership with NOLA Public Schools. All current students who completed Main Round received priority status. Summer enrollment opens in June if you either did not get a placement or you want to change placements.
What should I do if I am considering a private or parochial school instead of a public one?
If you are looking beyond the NOLA-PS Common Application, you will need to apply directly to those individual schools. Unlike the public system, non-public schools have their own unique deadlines, testing requirements, and tuition structures. We recommend starting your research immediately to ensure you don’t miss their specific enrollment windows.
Does New Harmony provide any specific support for non-public school applications?
Yes. If a private or parochial school requires transcripts or letters of recommendation, please contact our administrative office as soon as possible. We are happy to provide the necessary documentation to ensure your student’s application is complete.
What happens to current seniors?
The Class of 2026 is unaffected. As long as students complete the necessary requirements, we guarantee that all seniors will graduate with a fully valid high school diploma in May 2026.
What happens to our school traditions (e.g. prom, graduation, senior trip)?
We are fully funded through June 2026. Every planned milestone for the Class of 2026 will happen with the same enthusiasm and resources as previous years.
What happens to student records?
All records, including transcripts, IEPs, and 504 plans, will be securely transferred to your child’s next school. There will be no disruption in services. If you want to request a copy of your student’s records, please reach out to the school. Please be patient as we collect over 250 records to send on.
Is the school still safe and focused on learning?
Absolutely. Our mission is to celebrate the New Harmony legacy and finish the year with the same rigor and community spirit we have always had.
What about my college applications?
Our College and Career Readiness team will continue to send transcripts and support your college enrollment through the end of the school year.
What sort of social-emotional support will be available to students?
We currently staff two student support coordinators and a social worker, a counselor, and an intern. We will provide increased support to help students process the closure and the anxiety of transitioning to a new environment.