What is a Community School?

Community schools, often called charter schools in other states, are public nonprofit, nonsectarian schools that operate independently of any school district but under a contract with an authorized sponsoring entity that is established by statute or approved by the State Board of Education. Community schools are public schools of choice and are state and federally funded.

What will students be taught?

HOCA classical curriculum will include:

  • Core Knowledge history and geography
  • Classical literature and philosophy from the Western canon
  • Singapore math
  • Core Knowledge science
  • Explicit grammar and phonics
  • American civics
  • Latin
  • Music and the arts
  • Physical education

Who can attend?

Any student who resides in Ohio is eligible to enroll in a public community school, space permitting.

What will it cost?

Tuition-free schools like Dublin Classical Academy are just like any public school and will not charge students tuition to attend. In Ohio, this funding comes directly from the state, not the local districts.

Who will be the Head of School, Teachers, and Staff?

We are committed to supporting the recruitment of a mission-aligned teaching team and staff. Hiring leaders and staff is ongoing, so if you or someone you know are interested in a position, use our careers page to submit a form.

How Can I Help?

There are at least three ways that you can help:

1. Donate – opening a new school requires significant, up-front capital to pay for:
Facility lease or purchase and renovations
Desks, classroom supplies, and administrative office needs
Legal, consulting, and marketing fees
Principal and teacher salaries prior to opening
If you are willing and able to donate or pledge your financial support for the school, please visit the Contribute page.

2. Spread the word – let your friends, neighbors and colleagues know about HOCA, including by sending an email to them with a link to our website, so that they can learn more about the school and how to support it.

3. Volunteer – if you have time and expertise in the field(s) of education, marketing, real estate, finance, or are just a concerned parent or citizen who would like to be more involved in the founding effort, be sure to Contact us and include in your message that you would like to explore ways to become more actively involved.

How much money needs to be raised in order for the school to open?

Our goal is to raise $2 million in funds and pledges by the time the school opens in the fall of 2024. Although HOCA likely could open its doors on a smaller budget, a strong fundraising campaign will expand the facility options and position the school especially well to grow significantly as it serves more grades each year. However, whatever amount we are able to raise, HOCA is committed to opening in 2024.

Is HOCA a tax exempt 501(C)(3) organization?

Heart of Ohio Classical Academy is incorporated as a non-profit entity in the State of Ohio. Donations are tax-deductible.