If the Prince George's County School Board approves an application from the College Park City-University Partnership to establish a charter school in the city, College Park will become a step closer to joining a growing trend in the county.

The Washington Post reported this week that Prince George's County encompasses the largest concentration of charter schools among Washington suburbs. About 2,500, or 2 percent, of county public school students attend seven charter schools in Prince George's County.

Why the surge of independently run, publicly funded schools? The Post wrote that it's a sign of Superintendent William Hite Jr.’s efforts to expand education options. Charter schools are also in demand from parents, The Post wrote.

The city partnership, consisting of elected and non-elected officials and University of Maryland representatives, crafted the vision for the College Park Academy Public Charter School, with the goal of opening by fall 2013. County students in grades seventh through 12th will have the opportunity to earn up to 60 college credits.

The city council recently voted to support the application, which goes to the county school board this month.