Brad Teague, School DirectorA top-performing public charter school, CCA serves students in grades 4K–10, drawing learners from Gaffney, Blacksburg and nearby areas. Guided by a mission to prepare the next generation of American citizens, it follows a traditional education system, where students hone rigorous reading and writing skills and engage with classical literature, science and mathematics.
CCA cultivates character and knowledge, empowering students to grasp the reasoning and principles behind their learning while actively engaging with the community. This philosophy shapes virtuous, thoughtful and compassionate individuals who succeed in classrooms and beyond.
“We take a traditional approach to education, grounded in a classical curriculum, and thoughtfully integrate technology to enhance learning experiences,” says Brad Teague, school director.
CCA’s educators are central to shaping instruction into meaningful, lasting learning. The faculty comprises veteran teachers, including returning retirees and emerging educators who engage closely with students, offering both experience and fresh perspectives in every classroom. What distinguishes CCA’s staff is the commitment to go beyond job requirements and constantly seek to create the best learning environment.
Building character in students involves a daily focus on Core Virtues, an approach that promotes virtue-based education and encourages students to become responsible and productive citizens. Its no homework policy ensures that students arrive each day with fresh minds, determined to learn.
Students are encouraged to explore enrichment venues to foster holistic growth. CCA offers a range of extra-curricular activities like volleyball, basketball, soccer and a newly added e-sports club. The school has a vibrant 4-H group, a youth-led initiative that empowers students to nurture life skills and personal growth with applied, innovative learning.
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We take a traditional approach to education, grounded in a classical curriculum, and thoughtfully integrate technology to enhance learning experiences.
CCA’s academic performance underscores the effectiveness of its methodology. The recently released South Carolina School Report Card data shows CCA Middle School remains the highest-performing middle school in Cherokee County. CCA Elementary also showed significant progress, rising from fifth to second among all elementary schools. These results highlight the sustained dedication of its students, staff and families.
Beyond academic rigor, it stands out for its community engagements. For instance, when Hurricane Helene struck, CCA’s community members, parents and staff stepped into action, reaching out to families grappling with power outages and food shortages and providing them with timely support and care.
These achievements provide a strong foundation for the school’s ambitious future plans. Initially serving grades 4K–8, CCA has expanded to grade 10, with 11th grade scheduled for next year and 12th grade soon to follow.
The school’s growth has created exciting new opportunities, redefining what students can expect from their educational journey. To accelerate college readiness, it has partnered with Spartanburg Community College, through which students can begin earning college credits as early as the second semester of their sophomore year. This opens the door for many to graduate with significant college credits and even the potential to earn an associate degree before finishing high school.
CCA’s story is not an overnight success; it is the result of years of hard work and coordination of multiple hands behind the scenes. Its proactive board, committed to continuous improvement, works alongside Tutelage School Solutions—the organization that founded the school—with guidance and support from the Charter Institute of Erskine. Together, they have played a vital role in creating a model that nurtures the citizens of tomorrow.
