Charter schools are public schools, meaning that they are tuition-free and open to all students, regardless of zip code, race, ethnicity, income, or ability level, and are non sectarian. Charters operate under a "charter," a contract with an authorizer that outlines their mission, goals, and accountability measures. Charter schools are given flexibility in exchange for academic, financial, and operational accountability.Charter schools are public schools, meaning that they are tuition-free and open to all students, regardless of zip code, race, ethnicity, income, or ability level, and are non sectarian. Charters operate under a "charter," a contract with an authorizer that outlines their mission, goals, and accountability measures. Charter schools are given flexibility in exchange for academic, financial, and operational accountability.

A start-up charter school is a new school created by a group of founders who establish a nonprofit organization to run the school. NWGA Charter Academy is an example of a start-up charter school. Start-up charters may be authorized by either a local school district OR the State Charter Schools Commission. A start-up charter school is a new school created by a group of founders who establish a nonprofit organization to run the school. NWGA Charter Academy is an example of a start-up charter school. Start-up charters may be authorized by either a local school district OR the State Charter Schools Commission.

We plan to open with K-5 in Year 1 (fall 2026-spring 2027) and add grades 6, 7 and 8 as soon as possible. Our ability to add these grades (and eventually high school grades) will depend on several factors, including our students’ performance on standardized tests (compared to the districts in the attendance zone).

In the charter contract, an attendance zone establishes who is eligible to attend. NWGA Charter Academy will serve students from Floyd County, Polk County, and Rome City. If applications exceed available seats, a random lottery will determine enrollment.

If a charter school receives more applications than available seats, a random lottery is conducted to ensure a fair enrollment process. Some legally allowable preferences may include siblings of current students or children of full-time staff.

Yes. Charter schools are required to accept students with special needs and comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504.

Yes. Charter schools are open to all students, including students with limited English proficiency.

Locally Authorized Schools: Schools approved by a local school district receive state funding, federal funding, and a portion of local education dollars. State-Authorized Schools: Schools approved by the State Charter Schools Commission of Georgia (SCSC) receive state and federal funding, along with a supplemental state grant to compensate for the lack of local funding.

Charter schools are accountable to their authorizers. They are required to follow all federal laws and some state laws that cannot be waived. Charter schools must meet specific academic, operational, and financial performance goals outlined in their charter contracts. Academically, charters must meet or exceed local or state achievement and growth standards. Operationally charters must comply with safety, open governance, and other requirements. Financially, charters must be sustainable and provide stewardship of public funds, and charters are required to conduct an annual independent audit.

The school plans to open in 2026, initially serving grades K-5 and expanding to K-12 in subsequent years.

The City of Cave Spring has approved use of the Community Center and adjacent historical laundry building as the initial site for the school.

NWGA Charter Academy will use the EL Education (formerly Expeditionary Learning) model, emphasizing hands-on, real-world learning experiences. The model focuses on Habits of Scholarship, Mastery of Knowledge and Skills, and Ethical Character in its holistic programming.

Beyond the innovative EL Model, NWGA Charter Academy is committed to embedding the community into its academic programs, fostering a strong sense of civic responsibility and practical skills. Innovative programs such as K-12 financial literacy and high school entrepreneurship pathways will prepare students for success in college and beyond.

The school does plan to provide transportation to ensure students from across its attendance zone have equitable access to the school. Transportation details will be finalized closer to the school’s opening.

The school plans to participate in the National School Breakfast and Lunch programs and to offer delicious, nutritious meals to fuel the brain.

Applications will be available closer to the opening date. If interest exceeds capacity, enrollment will be determined through a lottery. Interested families may complete an Enrollment Interest form located on the website to stay informed about enrollment and school progress and engagement opportunities.

The founding team invites community members to provide input through surveys, attend informational sessions, and join committees to support the school’s development. More information will be shared on the school’s website and at community events. Community members are encouraged to complete a Community Interest Form to be added to communication distribution lists, to provide input into the charter plan via a survey, and to participate and volunteer at events.