Mastery First. Wonder Always.
A Northwest Georgia Charter School where your child will be known, challenged, and inspired through Spanish immersion, classical literature, and nature-first play.
Outdoor &
Bilingual Learning
Minimal
Technology Use
Proven Education
Models
Children crave meaning and delight. We give them space for both.
In today’s world, schools carry incredible responsibility—academics, care, character, community. But somewhere along the way, we’ve rushed past the basics.
We believe mastery is the foundation for confident learners, and wonder is the reward for children grounded in solid basics.
At our school, children are taught to marvel and wonder at the beauty all around them.
Grounded in successful education models, students at the Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia are trained in clear thinking and equipped with the tools to lead their own learning for life.
A Classical Approach to Lifelong Curiosity
We build minds and shape souls through a classical model of education—rich in story, structure, and the pursuit of beauty. From ancient fables to great books, we train students not only to absorb knowledge, but to seek wisdom.
A Classical Approach to Lifelong Curiosity
We build minds and shape souls through a classical model of education—rich in story, structure, and the pursuit of beauty. From ancient fables to great books, we train students not only to absorb knowledge, but to seek wisdom.
Dual Language Immersion for a
Global Imagination
Beginning in the early years, students learn in two languages, expanding their capacity for communication, culture, and connection. Bilingualism isn’t a bonus—it’s a bridge. Students will learn in both English and Spanish.
Dual Language Immersion for a
Global Imagination
Beginning in the early years, students learn in two languages, expanding their capacity for communication, culture, and connection. Bilingualism isn’t a bonus—it’s a bridge. Students will learn in both English and Spanish.
Outdoor Play, Nature Learning, and
Rhythms of Wonder
We believe children thrive in rhythm with the natural world. That’s why outdoor play, hands-on discovery, and nature-based experiences are core to our days. They build not just physical strength, but wonder, observation, and peace.
Outdoor Play, Nature Learning, and
Rhythms of Wonder
We believe children thrive in rhythm with the natural world. That’s why outdoor play, hands-on discovery, and nature-based experiences are core to our days. They build not just physical strength, but wonder, observation, and peace.
“Teaching children about the natural world should be treated as one of the most important events in their lives.”
— Thomas Berry
This is Education Reimagined for Northwest Georgia.
✓ Mastery in reading, writing, and reasoning
✓ Wonder sparked through story, song, and discovery
✓ Formation of whole humans—disciplined, curious, and joyful
The Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia is collaborating with Dalton Public Schools to apply for its charter. The school’s leadership is from the LEARNING Foundation of Northwest Georgia.
Learn More About Our Collaboration Partners
The Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia offers future educators the invaluable opportunity to develop their skills in real-world classroom settings, guided by experienced master teachers. From their first year of study, Dalton State education students will actively engage with K-12 students, gaining hands-on experience that strengthens their teaching abilities. Meanwhile, Dalton State faculty will collaborate closely with these students and teachers to refine best practices and share innovative approaches with regional K-12 partners.
This dynamic learning environment is designed to enhance outcomes for aspiring K-12 teachers and strengthen the public schools served by the Dalton State School of Education.
The Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia is collaborating with Dalton Public Schools to apply for its charter. The school’s leadership is from the LEARNING Foundation of Northwest Georgia.
Learn More About Our Collaboration Partners
The Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia offers future educators the invaluable opportunity to develop their skills in real-world classroom settings, guided by experienced master teachers. From their first year of study, Dalton State education students will actively engage with K-12 students, gaining hands-on experience that strengthens their teaching abilities. Meanwhile, Dalton State faculty will collaborate closely with these students and teachers to refine best practices and share innovative approaches with regional K-12 partners.
This dynamic learning environment is designed to enhance outcomes for aspiring K-12 teachers and strengthen the public schools served by the Dalton State School of Education.
“All families want to help their children prepare for a successful future, and the Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia will provide another option for families trying to find the best fit for their children. This new educational opportunity will provide a strong foundation for student success, subsequently strengthening our local workforce and our economy.”
John Minor, Chairman of the LEARNING Foundation of Georgia
“As a community-focused institution, we are excited about partnerships and opportunities to enhance K-12 education. We look forward to building on our multiple K-12 partnerships through placement of our education students at The Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia as we enable success for the K-12 school systems we serve.”
Dr. Sharon Hixon, Dean of the Dalton State College School of Education
61%
of state charter schools in 2023 outperformed the schools their students would otherwise attend.
Source: Georgia State Charter Schools Commission of Georgia
1000
charter schools eliminated learning disparities for their students and moved their achievement ahead of the state’s average performance.
Source: The Center for Research on Education Outcomes – As a Matter of Fact: The National Charter School Study III 2023.
71%
3rd grade reading proficiency achieved at a similar charter school in Macon, Georgia, using a classical education model. Compared to 43% for the state of Georgia.
Source: Georgia State Charter Schools Commission of Georgia
Ready to Learn More?
Join our interest list and be the first to receive:
- Founding class updates
- Info session invites
- Opportunities to help shape something truly beautiful in GA
The Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia is subject to local and/or state approval before the school can officially accept applications, hire faculty, or begin operations. Please join our email list and submit an interest form to help us gauge interest levels as we seek full accreditation and state approval.
FAQs
What is a charter school?
A charter school is a public school of choice that operates under a charter—a contract with an authorizing body such as the State Charter Schools Commission (SCSC) or a local board of education. Charter schools are granted flexibility from certain state and local regulations to design unique educational programs in exchange for meeting rigorous student performance goals.
How does a charter school differ from a traditional public school?
Unlike traditional public schools, charter schools operate with greater autonomy and flexibility. Instead of being governed by a local board of education, they are led by an independent nonprofit board. This independence allows them to implement innovative learning approaches that may not be available in traditional schools, while still being held to strict academic accountability standards.
What is the difference between a charter school and a private school?
Charter schools are public schools, meaning they receive government funding and do not charge tuition. Unlike private schools, they cannot have selective admissions criteria and must follow many of the same state and federal regulations as traditional public schools. Charter schools also participate in statewide assessments and accountability measures, ensuring educational standards are met.
What is the classical education model?
The classical education model is a time-tested approach that teaches students how to learn and think independently. It focuses on foundational knowledge, logical reasoning, and effective communication, building a strong intellectual and social foundation at every stage of a student’s development.
Who will the Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia serve?
The Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia will eventually serve Kindergarten through 12th grade, starting with grades K-3. The school welcomes students of all abilities and backgrounds, including English language learners, students with special needs, and those from economically disadvantaged communities. Enrollment is open to students living in the designated service area.
How much is tuition at the Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia?
The Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia is tuition-free—yes, really! As a publicly funded school, it will be supported by state and local resources.
Where will the school be located?
The Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia will be located in Dalton, but the exact location has not been finalized.
What are the admission requirements?
Charter schools do not have admission requirements other than residing in the school’s designated attendance zone. As public schools, charter schools adhere to the same open admission and enrollment standards as traditional public schools. Because space will be limited at the Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia, a lottery system will be used to determine which students are admitted.
The lottery system ensures fair and equitable access for all students. Priority points will be awarded to students in underserved categories.
Do charter schools serve students with special needs?
Yes! Charter schools are public schools and must provide services for students with special needs. Some services may be arranged through partnerships with the local public school system.
What will be the curriculum focus at the Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia?
The school will meet the Georgia Standards of Excellence using a combination of three foundational elements:
1. Classical education—strong focus on reading, language arts, literature, history, and exposure to Latin.
2. Outdoor / Finnish model—learning through outdoor play and personalized learning plans
3.Dual immersion—instruction in both English and Spanish to foster bilingual, bicultural, and biliterate graduates
What accountability will exist for the school?
In addition to the accountability to the LEARNING Foundation of Georgia’s board—the school’s governing board—the Learning Academy of Northwest Georgia will be subject to:
– Georgia’s Standards of Excellence
– State milestone testing, performing at or above the average of its authorizing district
– Charter re-authorization every five years, either at the state or local level
In The News
See how others are talking about our innovative education model and the projected impact for students.”
Region News Feature
Northwest Georgia to get first charter school…View Full Article