Charleston Development Academy
Charter School
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Welcome to Charleston Development Academy!
Where excellence begins and every student is empowered to learn, lead, and succeed. At CDA, we nurture the whole child through academic rigor, character development, and a culture of respect and achievement. Together, we are building bright futures—one scholar at a time.
Our Vision
An Intellect Construction Enterprise; Developing Minds, Building Character, Engineering Futures Where excellence is a standard expectation and where standards are expected to be excellent.
Celebrating 20 Years
Charleston Development Academy Public Charter School proudly celebrates 20 years of educating, empowering, and inspiring young minds!
For two decades, CDA has been committed to providing high-quality education grounded in academic excellence, character development, and community engagement. From our first day to today, our mission remains the same — to create a nurturing environment where every student can achieve success and become a lifelong learner and leader.
Please watch this celebratory video exemplifying our 20 years of excellence by selecting this link.
Inspiring Innovation Through STEAM & Project Lead The Way (PLTW)!
At Charleston Development Academy, students explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math through hands-on, project-based learning. Our PLTW program empowers scholars to think critically, design creatively, and solve real-world problems—preparing them to lead in a future driven by innovation.
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Scale of Service
CDA By The Numbers
150
Students
CDA is a public charter school serving Charleston-area families with a welcoming, engaging environment where students are inspired to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
2
Elementary and Middle
A Unique Educational Experience
CDA’s 2026–2027 budget prioritizes responsible stewardship of resources while investing in the programs, people, and opportunities that support our school’s goals and student success.
2.7
General Budget
Balanced Budget
CDA’s 2026–2027 budget reflects our commitment to responsible stewardship of resources while prioritizing the programs, people, and opportunities that support our school’s goals and student success.
80%
Percentage
Excelled in SC Ready ELA
36
Full-Time and Part-Time Faculty and Staff
Attracting, developing, and retaining talent
Competitive compensation and workforce stability ensure that every member of our team, can thrive personally and professionally
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23
Years
A Unique Educational Experience
Celebrating 23 years of education, empowering, and inspiring students to reach their unlimited potential!
8:1
Student to Teacher Ratio
100% served on 1:1 learning.
14%
Gifted and Talented Programs
Percent of students served by gifted and talented program.
