Acceleration Academies opening first location in Charleston, S.C. to re-engage local high school drop-outs

Looking to Re-engage Local High School Drop-Outs, South Carolina Public Charter School District Partners with Acceleration Academies

Charleston, SC – June 4, 2018 – Acceleration Academies has partnered with the South Carolina Public Charter School District and will be opening a location in Charleston, SC in September 2018. This is Acceleration Academies’ first location in South Carolina, and the seventh location nationwide.

The addition of the Charleston Acceleration Academy to the South Carolina Public Charter Schools portfolio of schools aims to increase district graduate numbers, enrich the local community, and to give every student within Charleston County a chance to earn a high school diploma tuition-free.

“The Academy’s goal is to make Charleston County a no-dropout community,” says Tom Ducker, Charleston Acceleration Academy Board Member.

Over 4,500 high school-aged students in Charleston County are currently not enrolled in traditional high schools due to a variety of factors such as needing to work to support themselves or their families, a lack of transportation or resources, or family caretaker obligations.

“CAA’s uniquely personalized and engaging education model is designed to provide the social, emotional and academic supports needed to re-engage high-risk and at-risk youth with their education and set them on the path towards graduation, careers and college,” says Dr. Gerrita Postlewait, Superintendent of Schools, Charleston County School District.

Acceleration Academies blended learning model allows students to work at their own learning pace, with the supports of a staff of highly trained certified teachers, paraprofessionals, guidance counselors, social workers and life coaches.

“We appreciate the opportunity to partner with Superintendent Postlewait and the South Carolina Public Charter School District in providing a second chance to so many young adults eager to re-engage in their high school education.” says Mark Graves, Acceleration Academies President. “These students need to be prepared for 21st century jobs in Charleston County and we’re going to do everything we can to help make that a reality.”

Acceleration Academies’ unique approach to alternative learning will serve to re-engage students in Charleston County who have left school, and the program will provide these young adults with the opportunity to earn their state-issued high school diploma outside of the traditional school setting.

Acceleration Academies Graduate (Class of 2018), Courtney Hayes, had this to say regarding the program, “Acceleration Academies has helped me become a more positive person and to not be afraid to reach my goals.”

Students who are currently eligible for grades 9-12 and are under the age of 21 are encouraged to apply.

“We encourage businesses, community /church leaders, law enforcement and parents to encourage students to seek our help,” says Nadine Deif, Charleston Acceleration Academy Board Chair. “Our job is to help the youth become high school graduates and find a career path that’s right for them. The individuality of each student is respected and encouraged.”

About Acceleration Academies | You have the potential. We have the tools. This is your opportunity. #OwnYourSuccess

Watch a video of our unique approach and experience here: https://vimeo.com/176302168

Acceleration Academies is an innovative education partner helping young adults overcome real-life challenges to earn their district issued high school diploma tuition-free.

We do this by offering:

● Web-based curriculum and technology
● Individualized learning plans
● Hands-on life and career coaching

For more information, visit our website at www.accelerationacademy.org/charleston or email us at contact@accelerationacademy.org.