Since 1845, Limestone University has a history of leading the way in education.   When Limestone was founded, it became the first women’s college in South Carolina and was one of the first in the nation. In the 1970s, Limestone created its innovative Block program for working adults who wanted to complete their degrees at night, and in the 1990s, Limestone once again led the charge for virtual education by being the first college in South Carolina to offer online classes and degree programs.  With its long history and dedication to learning, it is no surprise that in 2021 Limestone University made the decision to become one of the first institutions of higher education to become a state-wide charter authorizer. The University has created a separate entity, the Limestone Charter Association (LCA) to oversee the growth and development of charter schools in its portfolio starting with the 2022-2023 school year. 

The mission of LCA is to serve as the cornerstone of charter school authorizing in South Carolina and to facilitate a positive, educational environment that fosters school autonomy through support and oversight to its member schools.

LCA is committed to building relationships with our schools that foster the care of the school, which will in turn benefit all students.  LCA maintains this vision by adhering to the following core values:

Autonomy- LCA places school autonomy at the highest level of priority.  We believe an authorizer’s role is to provide the appropriate level of support and oversight, while allowing the schools to teach and make decisions on what is best for their students and for their boards to govern without unnecessary interference.   

Collaboration- Collaboration between LCA and its schools is paramount in creating a performance framework that is fair. Clear expectations and open communication allow the schools corrective measures without retaliation or threats of closure and identifies gaps in resources where LCA could assist the school.

Expertise- The best personnel to employ as an authorizer are those who have done the work, been in the trenches, and understand the day-to-day activities and needs of a charter school. LCA staff have amassed professional expertise in charter schools, traditional districts, and at both the state and national levels. 

Quality and Uniqueness- LCA conducts an extensive charter review and approval process.  LCA authorizes only those schools it feels will be of high quality and will provide unique educational experiences for the children of South Carolina. 

Limestone Charter Association will continue to support all students as they develop world class skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate.