ANDERSON, S.C.— The students, teachers, and leaders from Reason & Republic’s Belton Preparatory Academy (BPA) were honored Tuesday evening by the Anderson County Council for their outstanding results on the South Carolina College-and Career-Ready Assessments (SC READY) administered during the 2021-2022 school year. Based on the recently released standardized test scores, BPA is the #1 Charter School in the state of South Carolina, the #1 Title I School in the state for the second school year in a row, and the #1 Elementary school in Anderson County.
Belton Preparatory Academy Leaders and Students Recognized for Outstanding SC READY Results
“I founded Belton Prep on the belief that all students, no matter their background, family income or zip code, can achieve academic success if given the freedom and opportunity to learn in an environment that fits their unique needs,” said James Galyean, CEO of Reason & Republic, the education management organization that founded BPA. “We stay laser focused on what works for our students, and these results speak for themselves. I couldn’t be prouder of them, our teachers and our school leaders for this incredible achievement.”
Breaking down the SC READY results by subject area, students at BPA ranked #2 in the state in Math and #6 in the state for English Language Acquisition when compared to all of their peers across South Carolina public schools.
Anderson County District 7 Councilwoman Cindy Wilson presented a Resolution commemorating this achievement to Galyean and BPA’s Executive Director Deirdre McCullough.
BPA was founded in 2018 and has a strong track record of achievement. In February, BPA was awarded The Charter Institute at Erskine’s Diamond School of Excellence Award for scoring in the top 10% of all South Carolina Department of Education Schools in Math and English Language Acquisition (ELA) and topping the charts as the highest-performing Title I school in the state of South Carolina during the 2020-2021 academic year.
Galyean founded Reason & Republic in 2017 and the organization currently manages Belton Preparatory Academy, Summit Classical School, and the South Carolina Preparatory Academy—South Carolina’s first online classical public charter school.
Celebrating National Online Learning DayToday is National Online Learning Day and Reason & Republic is celebrating by highlighting The South Carolina Preparatory Academy (SC Prep), South Carolina’s First Online Classical Public Charter School. Tuition-free and open to students in middle and high school across the State of South Carolina, SC Prep combines the best aspects of traditional public and private schools with a robust online learning experience that provides students with the opportunity to learn at their own pace, on their own schedules, in the ways that are best for them. “Families are increasingly seeking flexible and customizable educational options to meet the unique needs of their children,” said Reason & Republic CEO James Galyean. “The South Carolina Preparatory Academy exists to meet these needs and provide students with the best fit for their education.”
Founded by Reason & Republic during the 2021-2022 school year, SC Prep has flourished under the leadership of Principal Dr. Kelly Griffis. “COVID really catapulted us into this,” explained Dr. Griffis. “So many students were left behind educationally, while others found that they were ready to move forward and progress faster than their traditional in-person classrooms allowed. SC Prep’s educational model benefits both of these sets of students.” As news about SC Prep’s flexible scheduling, individualized approach, and classical curriculum traveled across South Carolina, families seeking different educational options for their children took notice and made the choice to switch to a new and innovative virtual model. The school’s dedicated faculty and administrators currently serve over 360 students from across the State, with new families enrolling every day.
SC Prep’s mission is to provide a highly motivated and rigorous curriculum, virtual in nature and classically based to middle and high school students in South Carolina. The approach is more self-paced than a traditional classroom, with a focus on helping students learn the valuable time-management and self-advocacy skills needed in college and beyond. Virtual live classes are combined with individual and small group sessions, and students have additional course material to complete and submit by a set time each week. Since the virtual classroom expands to anyplace families want it to be, there are numerous opportunities for experiential learning and unique educational settings. “Families are free to travel while their children attend classes remotely, which really opens up a great global perspective that students can share with their classmates in real-time,” said Dr. Griffis. “We also have students who are on track to become professional athletes who require flexible schedules, and others who attend virtual classes in-person at mentoring organizations. By removing the constraints of a brick-and-mortar school, we’re providing the freedom to explore interests and allow students to learn in the ways that are best for them.”
At the heart of SC Prep is a content rich classical curriculum designed to teach students to read, think, and learn with order, depth, and complexity. “Critical thinking is huge for us,” explained Dr. Griffis, “and the flexibility of our schedule gives teachers the ability to pull together small groups that allow students to explore their thoughts and shore up their ideas in a supportive environment.” The virtual model also provides teachers with a unique opportunity to provide individualized instruction that normally isn’t an option in a standard classroom setting. Time is purposefully built into the schedule to allow faculty members to work with students one-on-one, and automatic grade updates keep teachers apprised of any potential academic issues requiring attention. Technology is a key component, with several types built into the curriculum to help students build the skills they will need in the future. “Our society is technology-based,” said Dr. Griffis, “and if you are going to advance in your career and in society, you need to be responsibly tech-savvy, which is definitely a skill our students are learning.”
The South Carolina Preparatory Academy is still open for enrollment for the 2022-2023 school year. There is no cost for tuition, and all students in grades six through twelve across the State of South Carolina are eligible to enroll. Visit https://www.myscprep.org/enrollment-form to learn more and apply today.
By: Kelsey Woods
On Thursday, May 19, the Charter Institute at Erskine hosted its fourth annual Awards Banquet at the Columbia Convention Center. This is the first Institute Awards Banquet that has been held in person since 2019.
Over 250 attendees from the Charter Institute at Erskine’s 26 charter schools statewide attended the event, including students, parents, volunteers, teachers, and school leadership. Charter School Ambassadors Christian DeWalk (Odyssey Online Learning) and Trinidy Higgins (Gray Collegiate Academy) served as the hosts of the event.
Ms. Makenzie Godfrey (Summit Classical School, Clinton), Mr. Terrance Heyward (Royal Live Oaks Academy, Hardeeville) and Mr. Jason Lin (Lowcountry Leadership Charter School, Charleston) were also announced as the Elementary, Middle, and High School Students of the Year. These students were nominated by their school’s staff and were selected as the winners by a panel of Institute judges.
Senator Danny Verdin attended the Banquet and presented his constituent, Ms. Makenzie Godfrey, with her award.
Thornwell Charter School‘s Cinda Ginn was a finalist for 2022-2023 Nathan Yon Institute Teacher of the Year. Summit Classical School’s Kate Cheeks was also nominated for the award.
Summit Classical School‘s Joe Baxter was nominated for Volunteer of the Year.
Federal Programs Coordinator of the Year was Mary-Greene Thomasson from Summit Classical School.
Congratulations to Mrs. Megan Patterson, The Charter Institute at Erskine 2022-2023 Nathan Yon Institute Teacher of the Year!As the 2021-2022 academic year draws to a close, Reason & Republic is thrilled to highlight the outstanding achievements of students and faculty at Belton Preparatory Academy, Summit Classical School, and The South Carolina Preparatory Academy. Our focus today is on Megan Patterson, a Kindergarten teacher at Belton Preparatory Academy who was named the 2022-2023 Nathan Yon Institute Teacher of the Year by the Charter Institute at Erskine. Mrs. Patterson, who is also Belton Prep’s Teacher of the Year, is a creative and enthusiastic instructor who thrives on making learning fun and engaging for her Kindergarten students. “In the words of Scott Hayden, ‘teachers have three loves: love of learning, love of learners, and the love of bringing the first two together,” said Belton Preparatory Academy Principal Mrs. McCullough. “Mrs. Patterson is an exceptional teacher because she understands the value of all three.”
Mrs. Patterson joined the Belton Prep community three years ago after a challenging teaching experience at another school almost led her to abandon the profession. “Teaching is my dream and what I’ve always wanted to do,” said Mrs. Patterson, who was thrilled to find such a perfect fit at Belton Prep. “The team I met with during my interview made me feel at home and confident in myself, and like I was where I truly belong,” she explained. “And that positive experience hasn’t wavered one bit.” From the small class sizes to the individual time and focus invested in the students to the amazing community, there is a lot to love about Belton. “Everyone here wants what is best for the school and the kids, and that shared mindset is something very special we have at Belton,” explained Mrs. Patterson. “I really love the excitement we have, where the smallest thing can just set the room off with laughter and joy.”
Kindergarten is a time of significant social and academic growth, full of new friendships and lightbulb moments when students fully connect with what they are learning. According to Mrs. Patterson, Kindergarten is where it all starts. “This is their first time being in ‘big’ school,” she said, “and we love that we get to mold what school is going to be for them moving forward.” Building independence has long been an important component of Belton’s Kindergarten curriculum, and it is particularly critical coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic where opportunities to exercise independence were limited. “We focus on fostering developmental independence in the kids from the first day of school,” explained Mrs. Patterson, “working with them on opening their own lunch materials, putting on their own jackets, and establishing the routines and procedures they need for the future. They mature in their own confidence and independence, and by the end of the year they are jumping out of the car line to make their own way into class.”
Mrs. Patterson was extremely honored to be nominated as The Charter Institute at Erskine’s Teacher of the Year, but didn’t expect to win until her name was announced during the awards banquet. “It was shock and disbelief on my face,” she laughed, “and I am just truly honored and thrilled to be representing the Charter Institute.” Superintendent of the Charter Institute at Erskine Cameron Runyan and 2021-2022 Nathan Yon Institute Teacher of the Year Ms. Laura Ferguson presented Mrs. Patterson with a trophy and a gift from the family of Nathan Yon. As the district-level Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Patterson is eligible to become the state-level Teacher of the Year next year.
Summer is right around the corner, and Mrs. Patterson and her Belton Prep colleagues are already excited for the 2022-2023 school year. “We started planning immediately after graduation and have some really fun new classroom activities organized for next year,” she exclaimed. Mrs. Patterson’s advice to teachers who wish to follow her incredible example? “Find a community like Belton that is going to give you support inside and outside of the classroom, and reach out to those around you to support and encourage them. I make cinnamon rolls every couple of months for the other teachers, and doing that small act of reaching out helps to build that sense of community.” We are extremely proud of Mrs. Patterson and look forward to hearing about her accomplishments in the future.
Reason & Republic is dedicated to developing high quality charter schools that provide an excellent education to underserved populations across the southeast. We currently manage Belton Preparatory Academy, Summit Classical School, and the South Carolina Preparatory Academy. Our award-winning charter schools are content rich classical academies that provide students the tools needed to learn how to think critically and purposefully. Learn more at https://reasonandrepublic.com.
Congratulations to Makenzie Godfrey, The Charter Institute at Erskine Elementary School Student of the Year!As the 2021-2022 academic year draws to a close, Reason & Republic is thrilled to highlight the outstanding achievements of students and faculty at Belton Preparatory Academy, Summit Classical School, and The South Carolina Preparatory Academy. Our focus today is on Makenzie Godfrey, a fifth grader at Summit who was named the 2021-2022 Charter Institute at Erskine Elementary School Student of the Year. Makenzie, who is also the Summit Classical School Student of the Year, was nominated by her teachers and principal for her persistence, positive attitude, and contributions to the school community. Selected from an impressive group of nominees from across South Carolina, Makenzie’s academic achievements and leadership within the school make her an excellent choice to serve as Erskine’s Student of the Year.
The Godfreys have been a part of the Summit Classical School family since the very beginning. “We went to the meetings way before they even started the school, and we’ve continued to be involved and have been there since day one,” said Makenzie’s mom, Benita Grant. Makenzie started at Summit first and was joined two years later by her little brother, Brycin, when he was in K5. From the small class sizes to the individual time and focus invested in the students to the amazing community, there is a lot to love about Summit Classical School. “It is personal, and I think it is like a close-knit family,” said Benita. “The teachers are nice, everybody is nice, it is a good environment. I wish more people knew about the school because it is a great opportunity.”
For Makenzie, Summit Classical has been a fantastic fit. “My favorite part about being at Summit is that you get to meet new people, and everybody is so nice and kind,” she explained. Makenzie is very enthusiastic about academics, and particularly loves math because it gives her “a challenge.” She is eager to share her love of learning with other students, and regularly provides academic assistance. “A little girl walked up to me and said she needed help with her homework, so I decided to help her,” Makenzie said. “Then students started asking me to help them with their homework, so I started helping more people.” In addition to helping with homework, Makenzie arrives early every morning to serve as Safety Patrol Captain, ensuring that all of the Safety Patrol posts are covered and encouraging younger students to behave. “She loves to lead,” said Benita. “She is someone who people look to as a leader, who they trust to be a leader.”
Makenzie’s desire to help others and her kindness to everyone in the school is definitely noticed and appreciated by those around her. “I find Makenzie to be caring of the other students in this school,” said Nurse Joyce Adair, a sentiment echoed by teachers Kate Cheeks and Adrienne Graham. “One of the things I love most about Makenzie is that she can celebrate other kids,” said Kate. Adrienne agreed, adding that “she is respectful, she is always kind to everybody, students and faculty alike.” According to Principal Mary Greene Thomasson, “Makenzie exemplifies the characteristics of a Summit BEAR, striving to Be Excellent, Accepting, Respectful, and Safe. She is an excellent student, a leader in the classroom, and the other students all look up to her.”
Makenzie’s family knew she had been nominated as The Charter Institute at Erskine’s Elementary School Student of the Year, but hearing her name announced at the Awards Banquet was a wonderful surprise which continued as she was presented the award by Senator Danny Verdin of Laurens. “I was so excited,” said Makenzie, a sentiment echoed by Benita. “I knew she had won the Student of the Year for the school, but for the district? I was so excited!” Makenzie’s advice to younger students who wish to follow the great example she has set? “Just go for it and start helping out,” said Makenzie. “If someone needs help with something, ask if you can help. That is pretty much what I do.”
Reason & Republic is dedicated to developing high quality charter schools that provide an excellent education to underserved populations across the southeast. We currently manage Belton Preparatory Academy, Summit Classical School, and the South Carolina Preparatory Academy. Our award-winning charter schools are content rich classical academies that provide students the tools needed to learn how to think critically and purposefully. Learn more at https://reasonandrepublic.com.
Congratulations to Kinsley Jenkins, Belton Preparatory Academy Student of the Year and SC READY English Language Arts Perfect Score Recipient!As the 2021-2022 academic year draws to a close, Reason & Republic is thrilled to highlight the great achievements made by the students and faculty at Belton Preparatory Academy, Summit Classical School, and The South Carolina Preparatory Academy. Our first focus is on Kinsley Jenkins, a fifth grader at Belton Prep. Kinsley received a perfect score on the South Carolina College-and Career-Ready Assessments (SC READY) English Language Arts (ELA) test and is the Belton Preparatory Academy Student of the Year. She is a dedicated student, a budding philanthropist, and all-around amazing young woman whose accomplishments we are proud to share.
The Jenkins family joined the Belton Prep community three years ago, when Kinsley was starting third grade and her younger sister, Kallie, was starting Kindergarten. Parents Jeff and Lesha felt it was a good time for the girls to transition to a new school together and were very pleased when their visit to Belton confirmed their belief that it would be a positive fit for their family. “We felt very comfortable after meeting with Mrs. McCullough, the principal,” said Lesha, “We appreciated the size of the classes and the fact that the kids would receive the time and attention they need.” As an added benefit, Lesha discovered that her favorite childhood teacher, Mrs. Barret, had returned from retirement to teach at Belton Prep. “It just touched my heart to know she came back to work at Belton,” said Lesha.
From the small class sizes to the individual time and focus invested in the students to the amazing community, there is a lot to love about Belton Preparatory Academy. For the Jenkins family, the biggest benefit has been the culture. “You know they care about your kids,” explained Lesha. “The kids get out of our car in the morning and they get a hug, and when they get back in the car at the end of the day, they are sent home with a ‘have a great night and see you in the morning.’ They love the kids, the kids are happy, and it is like a little family.”
For Kinsley, an aspiring engineer or pharmacist, Belton Preparatory Academy has been a fantastic fit. “I like how it challenges me more than I was challenged at my old school,” she explained. “I really like the teachers, and appreciate how involved Mrs. McCullough, is in everything we do.” Kinsley is very enthusiastic about academics and appreciates the time and effort the Belton Prep teachers put in to designing interesting projects for their students. When asked what she would do if she could be Belton’s principal for a day, Kinsley replied, “I would go into the classes to see how the teachers are doing and just get involved with them. My fourth-grade teacher, Ms. Schuler, was very creative, out-of-the-box, always made learning fun, and I’d love to see how she is doing this year.”
Kinsley’s favorite subject is math, but her perfect score on the SC READY English Language Arts test highlights her overall academic strength and focus. The news about her perfect score came as a complete surprise on the day the Charter Institute at Erskine visited Belton Prep to present the school with the Diamond School of Excellence Award. A single trophy remained on the table after all of the expected awards were handed out, and the announcement was made that somebody received a perfect score on the SC READY ELA section. “When they said Kinsley Jenkins, I was so shocked I didn’t know if I should go up!” Kinsley explained. “All of my friends kept telling me to go up, so I did!” Lesha added, “We enjoyed it being a surprise and appreciated that it was presented on a very exciting day for Belton.”
Outside of school, Kinsley is an avid reader who gets “interested in a lot of books” and an active soccer player who loves getting out on the field for games. Inspired by her mom’s work with cancer patients, Kinsley and her friend Adyson started a crafting business selling handmade rubber band bracelets, beaded butterflies, keychains, and potholders and are giving all the money they make to the Cancer Association of Anderson (CAA). The girls have donated almost $700.00 to CAA, and are excited to continue raising funds to support this important organization.
Rounding out an already exciting school year is the recent news that Kinsley has been selected as the Belton Preparatory Academy Student of the Year. The Student of the Year award is based on grades and behavior, with every Kindergarten – 5th Grade teacher casting a vote for the student they feel best represents Belton Prep. When asked about the best part of being Student of the Year, Kinsley replied that “getting recognized for my efforts with my grades and how I keep trying is the best part.” Kinsley’s advice to younger students who wish to follow the great example she has set? “You have to keep trying and don’t give up when things seem hard or difficult. You just need to keep working the best you can. As my mom says, “You do your best because your best is all that you can do.’” This is excellent advice for all of us, and we look forward to hearing more about Kinsley’s accomplishments in the future.
Reason & Republic is dedicated to developing high quality charter schools that provide an excellent education to underserved populations across the southeast. We currently manage Belton Preparatory Academy, Summit Classical School, and the South Carolina Preparatory Academy. Our award-winning charter schools are content rich classical academies that provide students the tools needed to learn how to think critically and purposefully. Learn more at https://reasonandrepublic.com.
Reason & Republic is proud to announce that The South Carolina Preparatory Academy is prominently featured in the most recent issue of Anderson Magazine. Bob Hanley’s excellent article, “Student Enrollment Increases in Online Virtual Public Schools” can be read below, or by clicking here to visit Anderson Magazine online.
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By: Bob Hanley
Once a rarity in the world of education online schools have seen rapid growth in student enrollment over the past few years. Such schools vary in academic approach, schedule, format, and extracurricular options.
Offering online education since 2008, the South Carolina Virtual Charter School has a longer history than most. As a tuition-free public school, it provides a curriculum for grades K-12 based on South Carolina state standards.
According to Dr. Cherry Daniel, the school’s CEO, it has seen a surge in enrollment driven in part by the pandemic but also by a growing desire for more options in education delivery. Dr. Daniel estimates that the Covid-19 factor may account for about 1,000 additional students in the overall enrollment of 4,300 students this year. However, the increased popularity of the school lies in providing an education alternative that is attractive to students and parents.
“What makes S.C. Virtual Charter School distinctive,” according to Dr. Daniel, “is that we have a set schedule, teach every day, are online, interact live, and in real time.” Students come to the school for a variety of reasons, she added. Some like the “hassle-free environment and lack of interruptions during instruction.” Overall, she asserted, the students experience quality instruction.
The South Carolina Preparatory Academy is a more recent addition to online virtual school options. The school began its inaugural year as a free, public charter school in the fall of 2021, offering classes for 6-11th grade. Current enrollment of over 250 students is expected to increase next year with the addition of the 12th grade and expanded marketing efforts.
James Galyean serves as CEO of Reason and Republic, the administrative unit for the school. For him, “the addition of the South Carolina Preparatory Academy provides a much-needed curriculum option for students.” The program addresses state education standards through a classical approach, an educational model that utilizes literature, essays, and other works to explore ideas from the great minds throughout history. For Galyean, “the school offers students and parents a high-quality education through a flexible schedule that enables them to pursue other interests.” For some students, he said, participating in a virtual environment is attractive with its potential to decrease their risk of Covid-19 exposure.
The school is also developing a mentor option. Don Peppers, mentoring program coordinator, noted that “mentors provide students with additional academic support and also promote character development.” The overall goal of the school is to graduate young adults who are academically prepared for college and/or career and are dedicated to serving as good citizens in their communities.
As a parent with an eighth grader, Christy Buczko and her husband chose the South Carolina Preparatory Academy for its focus on a classical approach to education and emphasis on supporting the individual student. The schedule flexibility enables their daughter to participate in online courses required for graduation and also continue to take in-person classes at her previous school and connect with friends there. As an added benefit, she has more time to train for equestrian competitions.
A seventh grader at South Carolina Preparatory Academy, Isiah Allen, described his experience this year as “amazing.” He praises his teachers for “their flexibility in working with me and concern for my success.” He especially appreciates having a mentor. He and his mentor have visited the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta and worked together on community service projects. Most importantly, “my mentor keeps me focused on my academics and encourages me to get my work in on time,” he said.
Reasons for shifting to the virtual academic pathway vary. Many cite the flexibility in scheduling as a primary motivation for change. Others point to the Covid-19 challenge as a deciding factor. Some note that this format enables them to have more time for other interests and activities. Many appreciate additional time with family. For such reasons, the online virtual education options in South Carolina have grown.
Online virtual schools that operate in South Carolina also include the Cyber Academy of South Carolina (K-10); the South Carolina Connection Academy (K-12); and the South Carolina Whitmore School (9-12). These programs vary in terms of academic approach, opportunities for teacher-student interactions, teacher credentials, scheduling format, extracurricular activities, options for AP courses and dual enrollment, costs, and other elements. For Galyean, parents should also note the accreditation status of any school they are considering for the student.
With the continuation of Covid-19 issues, the desire for greater school options, and other reasons, Galyean anticipates continued growth in the number of students seeking an online virtual school experience. Those interested in learning more about online virtual education may find additional information at each school’s website.
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Anderson, SC—Reason & Republic announced today it has selected longtime educator and school leader Kelly Griffis as interim Executive Director of South Carolina Preparatory Academy. Griffis was elevated from her current position as Director of Special Education.
“There’s no better choice than Dr. Griffis to lead SC Prep right now as we conclude our first school year and head into 2022-2023,” said James Galyean, the CEO of Reason & Republic. “She came to us with a stellar track record as a leader and a demonstrated ability to positively impact student achievement."
Griffis started her career in education in 1999 as a teacher and quickly moved through the ranks to hold several school and district-wide leadership positions over the course of the last two decades. She says joining the team at SC Prep was the perfect next step in her educational career because the philosophy and approach to learning aligns well with her values as an educator.
“Education is truly an extension of the family and the virtual model at SC Prep allows for parents to really be involved in the educational process,” said Griffis. “The students love it because they are free to learn and explore at their own pace, and there is so much that can be done to enhance a student’s educational experience when they attend a virtual program. I’m looking forward to helping shape that experience and grow our virtual charter school community.”
Prior to being selected as SC Prep's interim executive director, Griffis was head of the school’s Special Education Program, provided professional development for teachers and managed the school’s compliance with the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). From 2019 to 2021 Griffis participated in the School Improvement Team at Northside Elementary School where she spearheaded the effort to improve student performance and designed, planned and implemented a special education mentoring program. Prior to that experience Griffis served as a Program Coordinator for Anderson County School District 3.
Griffis has a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Liberty University and a Master of Arts in Special Education from the same school.
SC Prep launched during the 2021-2022 school year as South Carolina’s first online, classical academy. It is currently enrolling students in 6th through 12th grade for the 2022-2023 school year. To learn more, visit www.myscprep.org.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
ANDERSON, S.C.— Reason & Republic announced today one of its charter schools, Belton Preparatory Academy, received the Diamond School of Excellence Award from the Charter Institute at Erskine after its students scored in the top 10% of all South Carolina Department of Education Schools in Math and English Language Acquisition (ELA) and topped the charts as the highest-performing Title I school in the state of South Carolina during the 2020-2021 academic year.
“We couldn’t be prouder of our students at Belton Prep,” said James Galyean, CEO of Reason & Republic. “COVID disrupted the lives of every single student across the country, yet in the face of unprecedented adversity, and thanks to the tremendous teachers and leaders at Belton Prep, our students were able to stay laser focused on learning. That commitment has clearly paid off and is a testament to the collaborative and innovative learning environment we’ve built at Belton Prep.”
Schools earn the Diamond School of Excellence Award based on the students’ academic performance on the South Carolina College-and Career-Ready Assessments (SC READY). Impressively, Belton Prep students ranked #1 in the state amongst all of their Title I school peers in Math and ELA. Out of 666 overall schools that took the test, Belton Prep students ranked 6th in Math and 11th in ELA.
“This achievement really shines a light on the resiliency and dedication of our students, teachers and parents at Belton Prep,” said Deirdre McCullough, Executive Director of Belton Preparatory Academy. “When we opened in 2018, our goal as a team was to provide an academically rigorous setting where students, no matter their background or their parents’ income could learn, succeed and achieve. And, even in the midst of a pandemic, we’ve done just that.”
Reason & Republic launched Belton Preparatory Academy in 2018 as South Carolina’s first classical public charter school. When it opened, Belton Prep originally served students in Kindergarten through 2nd grade but has expanded each year. It now enrolls students in Kindergarten through 6th grade.
“Belton Preparatory Academy is an example of what can be accomplished when a school commits itself to the goal of academic excellence and refuses to waiver in that commitment even in the face of great challenges,” said Cameron Runyan, CEO and Superintendent of the Charter Institute at Erskine. “The leadership at this school has inculcated a culture where staff, parents, and students hold themselves to the highest standards of excellence.”
Reason & Republic is an Education Management Organization which began launching and operating charter schools in 2017. It currently manages Belton Preparatory Academy, Summit Classical School, and the South Carolina Preparatory Academy—South Carolina’s first online classical public charter school.
