Orange Grove Charter School: A Tradition of Excellence
Orange Grove Charter School is committed to developing confident, caring, and responsible lifelong learners through a rigorous, standards-based instructional program that aligns with the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate. Our charter status grants us the autonomy to implement innovative, data-driven strategies that directly benefit student achievement and growth.
With a proud history of 62 years serving Charleston families—first as a traditional public school and, for the past 19 years, as a conversion charter school—Orange Grove has consistently demonstrated excellence in education. We are honored to be recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School and a recipient of the Palmetto’s Finest Award.
Academic Excellence and Opportunity
Our charter status allows us to operate with fiscal responsibility, enabling small class sizes, high school course offerings, grade-level interventionists, independently operated bus transportation, and cutting-edge technology throughout our campuses.
Our expansion into middle school began in 2015 with a 6th-grade cohort and has grown into a full CD–8th grade program. Middle school students may earn up to three high school credits, with over 60% enrolled in advanced math courses. Across both state assessments and nationally normed tests like MAP and i-Ready, our students consistently outperform grade-level expectations, many scoring a full year above the national average. In addition, half of our 3rd–8th grade students have been identified as academically gifted and talented.
Our dedicated educators drive this success—70% of our teachers hold advanced degrees, and five are National Board Certified. We are proud to share that Orange Grove ranks in the top 1% of elementary schools in South Carolina.
Vibrant Programs and Community Engagement
We take pride in our dynamic learning environment, enriched by over 20 active business partnerships and an exceptionally engaged PTO. Signature programs include an annual Artist-in-Residence initiative, offering students immersive experiences in the visual and performing arts. Our diverse extracurricular offerings include:
Academic and leadership groups: National Honor Society, Beta Club, Student Council, Robotics Club, WTMN News Show
Arts programs: Studio Art, Chorus, Steel Drums, Musical Theater
Service and enrichment: Recycling Club, National History Day, mentoring clubs, and FCA
Athletics: Basketball, Tennis, Golf, Co-ed Soccer, Volleyball, Baseball, Softball, Cross Country, and Surfing Club
Families come together throughout the year for community events such as the Fun Run, Spring Fling, Family Bingo Night, Silent Auction, and Giving Market.
A Culture of Compassion and Service
Orange Grove fosters a strong sense of community and social responsibility. Families and students collaborate to support local charities with canned food drives, pet supply collections, as well as the hands-on delivery of those donations. Our Backpack Buddies program, sponsored by school families and business partners, provides weekly food bags to students in need, ensuring continued nourishment over weekends and holidays.
Why Orange Grove?
At Orange Grove Charter School, we cultivate creative and critical thinkers in a nurturing environment that respects individual differences and celebrates student success. Join a school community that’s more than a place to learn—it’s a place to thrive.
John H. Clendaniel, CEO, Orange Grove Charter School
Mac McSwain, OGCS Board of Directors
