Our school is helping all students develop the World Class Skills of the Profile of the South Carolina Graduate by working on independence, perseverance, problem-solving and becoming productive citizens.

 As a non-traditional school, students come to Charleston Advancement Academy because the traditional school environment did not work for them. Many of our students  are attendance problems, behavioral issues have full time job, have financial responsibilities and suffer from anxiety.  A traditional school could not meet all of their needs to be successful. Charleston Advancement Academy offers a one-on-one assistance to help with the academic, social and behavioral needs that students may exhibit. Together with community partners, Charleston Advancement Academy works with its students to make them feel empowered to not only earn a high school diploma, but additionally use that diploma to go on to college, a career, or a branch of the military.  Initially designed as a dropout prevention program, CAA takes students well beyond the high school diploma.

 We start this process by making the students understand independence.  This is something that many of our students have felt in some aspect of their life, but not necessarily in regards to their education.  We empower students to understand that previous mistakes do not define them; it is their actions moving forward that will set their path. Charleston Advancement Academy uses certified teachers, counselors and advancement counselors to meet with students daily in order to help motivate them to achieve success.  They map out the courses that students need to gain their diploma and also work on emotional supports needed to make it a reality.  

 Using this whole person approach, Charleston Advancement Academy teaches students how to persevere and overcome obstacles.  The daily support of the staff is crucial to students not giving up on their education.  It is crucial that we continue to motivate them to keep going and provide the skills to students in order for them to push through barriers and redefine success.  Partnering with Trident Technical College, options are given to students about which careers and education are available in areas that interest them.  Community leaders also come in to provide assistance on financial aid, post-secondary options, and overall motivation.  

The continuous guidance and motivation by the staff help students learn how to problem solve on their own.  They learn how to identify their needs and what to do to overcome barriers.  The flexible school hours, blended in-person and online coursework of Charleston Advancement Academy is designed to achieve one hundred percent success for the students.  Charleston advancement Academies goals are to increase the graduation rate, increase attendance rate, increase course completions and continue to improve scores in state and national tests.