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Board approves revised goals for Lowcountry and Carolina Shores Acceleration academies
Summary
PCSD trustees approved charter-goal amendments for two alternative education campuses — Lowcountry Acceleration Academy and Carolina Shores — after presentations describing a 5% relative-growth target model and improvements in graduation and EOC outcomes.
The board of the SC Public Charter School District unanimously approved goal amendments for Lowcountry Acceleration Academy (LAA) and Carolina Shores Acceleration Academy (CSA) at the Sept. 11 meeting following presentations by Kristen Farmer and a representative of the school network.
What was proposed: Both schools requested revisions to charter performance goals to align with the campuses—alternative education campus (AEC) model and statewide accountability expectations. The updated goals use a 5% relative-growth model (year-over-year percentage gains from each campus—baseline) rather than flat-point increases, and include targets for end-of-course (EOC) exams, credit attainment, graduation rates, and career- and college-readiness measures.
Presentation highlights: Dr. Jacinta Bryant, representing South Carolina Acceleration Academies, described the student population as largely at-risk (she cited a figure of about 85% of GCs, graduation candidates, meeting risk criteria) with many students reengaging after interrupted schooling. Bryant said both campuses showed "encouraging progress" in EOC performance and graduation rates, noting one campus posted double-digit graduation-rate growth year over year and both campuses meet or exceed national AEC graduation benchmarks.
Why it matters: The goals were tailored to each campus—starting point (LAA and CSA have different baselines) and are intended to set rigorous but achievable trajectories that reflect the campuses—educational model: individualized pacing, wraparound supports and extended learning time. Bryant also provided program-level context, including graduation candidate advocates, life and career coaches, telehealth partnerships and extended hours of operation for students.
Board action: After questions about enrollment, math performance and instructional supports, a motion to approve the amendments passed with no opposition.
Ending: The amendments were adopted unanimously; staff will continue to monitor the campuses under the revised, relative-growth targets and report progress in annual reports and oversight visits.
