Media release from Northwest Georgia Charter Academy:
Northwest Georgia Charter Academy (NWGA Charter Academy), the first free public charter school in Northwest Georgia, announced that it will add a second kindergarten class for the 2026–2027 school year in response to higher-than-anticipated enrollment demand from families across Floyd and Polk counties.
Since holding its first enrollment lottery in November 2025, Northwest Georgia Charter Academy has seen exceptional interest from families seeking a small-school environment grounded in hands-on learning, strong character development, and a community-centered approach to education. Kindergarten seats are filled far ahead of projections, and the waiting lists for all grades (K-5) continues to grow daily.
In response, the Governing Board held a special-called meeting to evaluate the need for additional capacity. The Board voted unanimously to add a second kindergarten class for the 2026–2027 school year. When doors open in August 2026, Northwest Georgia Charter Academy will serve 40 students in two kindergarten classes, along with one class each in first, second, third, fourth, and fifth grades.
Staying true to its intentional small-growth model and its charter contract with the State Charter Schools Commission, the school will continue expanding one grade level per year—beginning with sixth grade in 2027—ultimately becoming a full K–12 program.
“Families in Northwest Georgia are clearly looking for something different — a place where their children are known, supported, and challenged,” said Dr. Dawn Williams, Superintendent. “Adding a second kindergarten class allows us to welcome more students while maintaining the intimate, relationship-based learning environment that defines our school.”
Growth Outpacing Early Projections
The surge in enrollment interest has also accelerated facility planning conversations. NWGA Charter Academy’s leadership noted that the school is on track to outgrow its current facility sooner than originally anticipated, a reflection of the community’s strong support and the school’s unique educational approach.
Northwest Georgia Charter Academy will begin operations on the historic Georgia School for the Deaf campus in Cave Spring and is committed to providing:
- A tuition-free public charter school option
- Smaller class sizes and personalized learning
- Hands-on, real-world instruction
- A whole-child approach focused on character, curiosity, and community
- Bus transportation for families in both Floyd and Polk counties
“We are thankful for our partnership with the State Properties Commission and GSD for executing a lease for our first three years. We will fast track our search for a school building or facility that will serve us into the future – hopefully in the Cave Spring community. With waiting lists in most grades, it is clear that families are embracing the vision of Northwest Georgia Charter Academy,” said Judy Taylor, Founder and Board Chair. “We want to serve families and ensure that we are well-positioned to grow responsibly and sustainably.”
As the school prepares for its August 2026 opening, NWGA Charter Academy will continue sharing updates with the community — including upcoming announcements about staffing, and additional opportunities for families to get involved.
Families interested in enrolling or learning more can visit www.nwgacharteracademy.org.
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