East Link Academy is helping all students develop the “World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate” by Enriching Academics 丰富学术, Linking Cultures 衔接文化, and Achieving Language Proficiency 达到语言娴熟.
East Link Academy is a Mandarin immersion public charter school committed to preparing globally minded, bilingual learners who are equipped to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world. Our mission is to inspire academic excellence, nurture cultural understanding, and foster the development of the whole child in a supportive and engaging learning environment. We believe that students who are challenged academically and immersed in a second language are empowered to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and leaders who can contribute meaningfully to their communities both locally and globally.
Academic Excellence
The 2023–2024 school year was marked by outstanding academic growth at East Link Academy. Our students excelled across multiple subject areas, with assessment data reflecting significant progress in both reading and mathematics. A large percentage of students not only met but exceeded their projected growth on state assessments, and many advanced beyond grade-level expectations. These achievements highlight the effectiveness of our data-driven approach to teaching and learning, as well as the dedication of our students and staff.
Teachers at East Link Academy utilize ongoing formative assessments and i-Ready diagnostics to monitor student progress closely. Instruction is adapted to meet the unique needs of each learner, ensuring that all students—whether needing intervention or enrichment—are given the tools to succeed. The results from this year clearly demonstrate the strength of our academic program: our students are thriving in a rigorous, bilingual learning environment and are developing the knowledge and skills needed for lifelong success.
Dual-Language Immersion and Curriculum
Our dual-language immersion model sets East Link Academy apart as a school that prepares students for a truly global future. Students receive daily instruction in both English and Mandarin, mastering core subjects while also developing bilingual fluency. This approach has been proven to enhance cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and academic achievement.
In literacy, students deepen their reading and writing skills in both languages, with guided instruction focused on vocabulary, comprehension, and communication. In mathematics, our students engage in conceptual learning, problem solving, and application of knowledge to real-world contexts. Science and social studies lessons integrate inquiry-based projects and hands-on learning, while also embedding opportunities for authentic language use. This curriculum ensures that East Link Academy graduates are not only academically strong but also culturally competent and linguistically skilled.
Celebrating Culture and Community
A hallmark of East Link Academy is our dedication to cultural learning and community engagement. Each year, we provide opportunities for students and families to celebrate traditions, embrace diversity, and connect with our global mission.
One of the most anticipated highlights of the school year is our Chinese New Year celebration. In 2024–2025, students dazzled families and community members with performances that showcased Mandarin songs, dances, skits, and cultural traditions. These performances not only celebrated the richness of Chinese culture but also gave our students an authentic opportunity to apply their language learning in front of an audience. The event drew strong family and community support, reinforcing the bridge between cultural immersion and academic achievement.
East Link Academy also welcomed families to our Mid-Autumn Festival celebration, a beloved tradition where students and their families gathered to enjoy cultural presentations, mooncakes, and community fellowship. This event emphasized the importance of family involvement in education and highlighted the role of cultural understanding in creating a supportive, inclusive school community.
Beyond our school walls, East Link Academy proudly participated in local international festival events, representing our school and sharing our students’ talents with the broader community. Through performances, displays, and student participation, we showcased the power of bilingual education and the value of cultural exchange. These events not only elevated our school’s profile in the community but also reinforced our mission of preparing students to be confident, engaged global citizens.
Whole-Child Development
At East Link Academy, academics and culture are complemented by a strong emphasis on the social–emotional growth and character development of every child. Our students are encouraged to develop empathy, resilience, and leadership skills through daily interactions, character education lessons, and opportunities to serve as leaders within the school. By creating a safe, nurturing environment, we ensure that our students grow not only as scholars but also as compassionate, responsible individuals.
Family and Community Engagement
Family engagement continues to be a cornerstone of East Link Academy’s success. We believe that education is a partnership, and we actively involve parents and guardians in every step of the learning process. Family events such as literacy nights, math workshops, and cultural celebrations provide parents with tools to support their child’s learning while also creating opportunities to celebrate accomplishments together. Parents are also valued contributors to the success of school events, volunteering their time and talents to ensure that cultural programs and academic initiatives are meaningful and impactful.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the 2023–2024 school year, East Link Academy is proud of the accomplishments of our students, staff, and families. Outstanding academic performance, engaging cultural celebrations, and strong community participation defined this year as one of growth and excellence. Looking forward, we remain dedicated to building on these successes by expanding our academic offerings, strengthening our Mandarin immersion program, and continuing to create opportunities for students to shine both inside and outside the classroom.
East Link Academy stands as a model of what can be achieved when rigorous academics, cultural appreciation, and community partnership come together. Our students are not only achieving at high levels but are also developing the skills, knowledge, and character needed to thrive in an increasingly global world.
