CHCS focuses on a hands-on, thematic instructional approach that uses the school’s unique rural surroundings as a framework for learning, and positions agricultural, environmental, and artistic themes as lenses through which the Georgia state performance standards can be achieved and exceeded.

Extensive research shows that students who engage in environmental-based investigations in their own community often experience better performance on standardized tests, have less discipline and classroom management problems, and an increased enthusiasm for learning.

We value academic excellence, artistic expression, environmental stewardship, high standards of ethics and good character, a concern for physical health and well-being, sustainability and social responsibility.

The CHCS academic program will feature two unique innovative approaches:

  1. Curriculum will be structured so that students learn how to learn. Our curriculum encourages critical thinking, complex problem-solving and team work. Subject lessons are designed to tap into children’s natural sense of curiosity and to promote active discussion between peers and teachers in order to develop true understanding, and not just rote memorization, of a topic.
  2. Hands-on learning is paramount to our curriculum model. CHCS will use the abundant, rural nature of the community as a vehicle for experiential learning in life sciences, math and other core subjects. Students will work in nearby streams and fields, practice recycling to experience the impact of their choices on the environment, develop their artistic talents guided by local artisans, and consider and test solutions to the problems in their community and develop understanding of the larger implications of these problems around the world.