Cogito Academy awarded a major planning and implementation grant

Cogito Academy is proud to announce it has been awarded a substantial grant in the amount of $850,000.00. This funding source will be instrumental in successfully opening the school for the 2025-2026 school year and advancing the mission of providing a high-quality public school option to students in the greater Lancaster County area.

The grant, provided by the South Carolina Department of Education, will be allocated to several key areas aimed at fostering academic excellence and innovation. These include:

1. Increasing community awareness and supporting student enrollment: Funds will be used to develop and implement awareness campaigns for Cogito Academy and to assist parents who have the desire to reserve their child’s spot for the 2025-2026 school year.
2. Curriculum development and training: Investments in the installation and training of our proven curriculum (Eureka Math, Core Knowledge, and Core Virtues) will be a cornerstone of the success implementation of the Cogito Academy model.
3. Board training: This grant will support the ongoing professional development of our Board Members, ensuring they are prepared to inspire and lead our school.
4. Vital insurance coverage: Funds will be used to gain the necessary bond, property, and other critical insurance needs to help this project sustain its current momentum.

“We are thrilled and deeply grateful for this significant grant from the South Carolina Department of Education,” said Cogito Academy Board Chair, Dr. Toneka Green. “This funding will enable us to provide our future students with exceptional educational opportunities and support their academic and personal growth. We are committed to utilizing these resources to their fullest potential to benefit the entire Lancaster County community. This grant underscores the confidence and trust that both the Charter Institute at Erskine, as well as the South Carolina Department of Education, has in the vision and direction of Cogito Academy. It marks a major milestone in our ongoing efforts to provide high-quality education and foster a nurturing environment where every student can thrive.”

Cogito Academy will be a new public charter school opening in Lancaster County for the 2025-2026 school year serving grades 4K-6. The school will strive to develop the next generation of American citizens by educating the whole child with a classical education. A classical education means a focus on a quality curriculum and instruction, character development, and a focus on both student mental and physical health. Cogito Academy plans to add 7th grade for the 2026-2027 school year and 8th grade for the 2027-2028 school year. Cogito Academy is authorized by the Charter Institute at Erskine and is supported by Tutelage School Solutions.

For more information about this grant or any upcoming events at Cogito Academy please contact [email protected] or follow us on Facebook.