GRANDFATHER ACADEMY

Grandfather Academy is a Title I public charter school with about 22 students offering grade levels from 1st Grade to 12th Grade. A Title I school provides supplemental financial assistance to school districts for children from low-income families. Its purpose is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. With about 4 teachers, Grandfather Academy has a student/teacher ratio of about 5:1. The national average for public schools is about 15:1. A lower student/teacher ratio is a key factor that determines how much a teacher can devote his/her time to each individual student thus improving, or reducing (in the event of a higher student/teacher ratio) the attention each student is given for their educational needs.

Grandfather Academy, located in Banner Elk, North Carolina, is a specialized educational institution situated on the campus of the Grandfather Home for Children. As a public charter school, it is uniquely designed to serve students who may have experienced significant life challenges, including trauma, instability, or behavioral difficulties. The school emphasizes a therapeutic approach to education, integrating small class sizes, individualized instruction, and a highly supportive environment to help students overcome barriers to learning and social development.

The school’s curriculum is tailored to meet the specific emotional and academic needs of its student body, often focusing on social-emotional learning alongside core academic subjects. By fostering a close-knit community and maintaining a low student-to-teacher ratio, Grandfather Academy aims to provide a safe, stable atmosphere where students can rebuild their confidence, develop critical coping skills, and achieve academic success. The school serves as a vital resource for families and children in the High Country region who require a more personalized and compassionate educational setting than a traditional public school might offer.

For more information, contact Grandfather Academy at (828) 897-4500 or visit the school personally to speak with a faculty or administrative member about any specific questions you may have.