Our History

HOW AND WHY WE OPENED?

In the early 1990s, Broward County was home to the fifth-largest school district in the nation—and its public schools were facing severe overcrowding. In response, the Mayor of Pembroke Pines, in collaboration with the City Commission and City Manager, envisioned a bold solution: the creation of the Pembroke Pines Charter School System. By launching our own charter system, the City helped ease the burden on Broward County Public Schools while creating new opportunities for students right here in Pembroke Pines. Most importantly, this initiative made it possible for students—both in public and charter schools—to learn in classrooms that are more focused, supported, and truly conducive to academic success.

OUR CURRENT CHARTER SCHOOL SYSTEM

The 2025-2026  charter school system adopted budget is $86.75 million. Our charter school system has 581 employees and projects to have  6,285 students in 4 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 1 high school. Presently, the Pembroke Pines Charter School System  (PPCSS) has a waiting list of 4,361 applicants.

PUBLIC EDUCATION CAPITAL OUTLAY FUND

The primary source of funding for charter school facility needs in Florida is the Public Education Capital Outlay (PECO) Fund. However, over the past 25 years, our system’s share of PECO funding has declined by 42%. Had funding levels remained consistent with those in 2001, our charter system would receive an additional $2.65 million to invest in capital improvements. While funding remains limited, our administration is focused on pursuing every available opportunity to meet our capital needs without compromising the student experience. 

WHAT IS A CHARTER SCHOOL?

A charter school is a publicly funded school that, in accordance with an enabling state statute, has been granted a charter exempting it from selected state or local rules and regulations. As part of the contract, charter schools are held strictly accountable for academic and financial results.

OUR CHARTER SCHOOL SYSTEM SUCCESSES

Our charter schools have a long-standing record of academic excellence. In 2007, the Pembroke Pines Charter School System (PPCSS) was named National Charter School of the Year. West Middle and FSU Elementary received the U.S. Department of Education’s highest honor—the National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence—in 2009 and 2015, respectively. Our Elementary and Middle schools have consistently earned “A” ratings for 23 consecutive years based on state assessments. The Academic Village Charter High School has been ranked among the nation’s best by U.S. News & World Report, and for six consecutive years, all PPCSS schools have proudly maintained the Florida’s School of Excellence designation. This sustained achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovation in instruction, and preparing every student for lifelong success in an ever-evolving world.