Ethos Classical Charter School has been named the 2026 Georgia Charter School of the Year. The school received the honor during the 23rd Annual Georgia Charter Schools Conference at the Atlanta Marriott Northwest at Galleria. This recognition highlights Ethos Classical’s dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and student success.
“From day one, we have been clear that our scholars deserve both strong instruction and a school environment where they are deeply known and valued,” said Danielle Mack, Chief Executive Officer of Ethos Classical. “This recognition reflects the work of our scholars, our staff, and our families. We are proud of our progress in reading and focused on continuing to raise the bar across all areas.”
Ethos Classical Charter School serves more than 800 scholars across two campuses for grades K–7, with 98% of scholars identifying as students of color. In just a few short years, Ethos has demonstrated strong academic progress, with scholars reading on grade level at rates exceeding the state average.
Ethos is grounded in a structured, literacy-focused instructional model that prioritizes strong foundational skills, consistent routines, and high expectations for all scholars. Classrooms are designed to ensure scholars receive targeted support and clear, standards-aligned instruction every day.
In addition to a strong academic core, Ethos provides scholars with access to arts, music, dance, and enrichment experiences that build confidence and allow scholars to express themselves beyond the classroom.
The school’s approach is rooted in the belief that all scholars can achieve at high levels when given the right environment, support, and consistency.
“Ethos Classical Charter School exemplifies the dedication, innovation, and excellence that define Georgia’s charter schools,” said Dr. Bonnie Holliday, President and CEO of the Georgia Charter Schools Association. “With strong literacy instruction, access to the arts and enrichment programs, and a commitment to every student’s success, Ethos sets a model for schools across the state. We are proud to honor their outstanding work as the 2026 Georgia Charter School of the Year.”
The Charter School of the Year Award is generously sponsored by the Facility Resource Center and includes a $5,000 prize for educational use. Ethos was chosen from a group of outstanding finalists, including BIA Charter School in Norcross, which serves K–8 students with a hands-on, technology-forward approach, and Fulton Academy of Science & Technology (FAST), a K–8 charter school in Roswell focused on STEAM and Design Thinking.
The 2026 Charter School of the Year was selected through a two-step evaluation process. A review committee evaluated submissions and selected three finalists whose applications demonstrated exceptional impact, innovation, and outcomes. A second committee then evaluated finalists using a rubric that included both qualitative insights and quantitative data, such as academic performance, innovation, community engagement, and replicable practices.
About the Georgia Charter Schools Association
The Georgia Charter Schools Association is a nonprofit membership organization for Georgia’s public charter schools and petitioners. Our mission is to support, foster, and advocate for the development of high-quality public charter schools and networks that improve opportunities for Georgia students. We believe every child in Georgia should have equal access to a quality and transformative public education.
About Ethos Classical Charter School
Ethos Classical Charter School is a tuition-free public school serving families in Atlanta Public Schools, Fulton County Schools, DeKalb County Schools, Clayton County Schools, Cobb County Schools, and Douglas County Schools. Ethos will grow to serve students in grades K–8 by the 2027-2028 school year. At Ethos Classical Charter School, scholars thrive in a rigorous curriculum within a structured, supportive community. Every Ethos scholar is nurtured to grow in confidence, character, and creativity—ensuring they are prepared for college and a life full of opportunity.