News Summary
The Ashley River Classical Academy (ARCA) is set to open in Charleston for the 2025-26 academic year. Located at the former site of Grace on the Ashley Baptist Church, ARCA will provide a classical liberal arts education for grades K-5, with plans to expand annually. The academy, authorized by the Charter Institute at Erskine, aims to blend academic rigor with character development, ensuring students focus on pursuing truth, goodness, and beauty while preparing them for future educational success.
Exciting Developments in Charleston with New Ashly River Classical Academy!
Get ready, Charleston! A new educational establishment is on the horizon as the Ashley River Classical Academy (ARCA) is gearing up to open its doors for the 2025-26 academic year. Set at 2025 Bees Ferry Road in the charming West Ashley area, the new school promises to bring a fresh approach to education in the community.
A New Home for Learning
The building that will host ARCA has an interesting past. Previously, it was home to the Grace on the Ashley Baptist Church and later the Charleston Christian School. Now, thanks to the American Classical Education Foundation, that site is being transformed into a vibrant space for learning. Spanning a whopping 49,000 square feet, the facility is not just big; it’s packed with amenities that include a music room, a fully equipped gymnasium, an art room, a multipurpose room, and not one, but two playgrounds! It’s a dream come true for kids seeking fun alongside their learning journey.
Starting Small and Growing Big!
When it opens on August 12, 2025, ARCA will welcome students in grades K-5 and has grand plans to expand by one grade per year until it serves students through 12th grade. The school aims to kick off with around 340 enthusiastic students, which is sure to create a lively and engaging environment.
Backed by the Right Folks
ARCA has been officially authorized by the Charter Institute at Erskine, which is a major player as South Carolina’s largest charter school sponsor. Plus, the academy will be affiliated with the renowned Hillsdale College and will adopt a classical liberal arts curriculum. This means students will not just be learning subjects but will also focus on developing moral character and civic virtue alongside their academic education. The goal here is not just to teach but to prepare well-rounded citizens who understand the rich principles of Western tradition.
Concerns and Community Involvement
While many are excited about the new academy, there have been some concerns from locals regarding potential biases due to the school’s connection with certain conservative groups. But, in the grand scheme of things, ARCA emphasizes character development and a challenging academic approach that encourages students to pursue truth, goodness, and beauty.
In the midst of these discussions, local community members, including teachers and business owners, have voiced their enthusiasm for the school’s future. Support is evident, with notable backing coming from state senator Matt Leber and his wife, who is a newly elected member of the school board.
A Curriculum to Get Excited About
When it comes to what’s being taught in the classrooms, ARCA has big plans. The curriculum will align with South Carolina College and Career-Ready standards, which means students will get an education that meets state requirements while also engaging them with subjects like Singapore math, Latin, and phonics-focused literacy. This classical model has seen a rise in popularity over the last decade and advocates a thorough exploration of key concepts that inspire a deep understanding and appreciation of various disciplines.
Looking Ahead
As the countdown begins for ARCA’s opening day in 2025, the Charleston community eagerly anticipates what this new educational gem will bring. With a commitment to a high-quality education intertwined with a moral foundation, the Ashley River Classical Academy may very well set the stage for a bright future for its students and the local area alike. Stay tuned for more exciting updates as we await the grand opening!
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Classical Charter Academy in Charleston
- Live 5 News: New Charleston Location for Classical Academy
- The Center Square: Classical Academy Plans in Charleston
- Charleston City Paper: Education Partnership Concerns
- Advocate: Moms for Liberty and Charter Schools
- Wikipedia: Classical Education
- Google Search: Charleston Education News
- Google Scholar: Classical Education Charleston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Google News: Charleston Classical Academy
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
