About ACCS

Atlantic Community Charter School opened its doors in September 2014 with the promise to be an agent of change for the children of Atlantic City and the surrounding communities. The school is committed to instilling a can-do philosophy of self-reliance and high expectations. ACCS educates students in grades K-8.

ACCS is dedicated to empowering students as learners through a results-driven academic environment, a strong partnership with parents, a focus on building life skills, and a commitment to stimulating a child’s innate desire for knowledge. ACCS is further dedicated to helping students develop the necessary academic, social, and emotional skills to prepare them for successful academic experiences in high school, post-secondary education, career paths, and beyond.

By the time students graduate from ACCS, they will have acquired a solid foundation to be self-sufficient learners for the rest of their lives. They will have the ability to communicate confidently in the digital age and will be proficient in reading, mathematics, and language, as defined by state standards.

ACCS utilizes state-of-the-art tools throughout its building to assist students in realizing their academic potential. The campus provides a safe learning environment secured through video surveillance, intercom systems, and secure entrances.

In the late 1990s, CSMI, LLC, the educational management company of ACCS, began turning lives around in Chester, Pennsylvania, one of the state’s worst-performing school districts. CSMI was brought in by the Board of Trustees of the Chester Community Charter School to oversee the school’s operations. The success and the lessons learned in Chester form the model for Atlantic Community Charter School.

CSMI applies a business-based philosophy to education management: Remove management responsibilities—budgeting, supplies, building maintenance, meals, school safety, etc.—from the educators, and give educators the tools and support to do what they do best. Focusing solely on students gives teachers and principals more time, freedom, and flexibility to devote to academics. With attention fully focused in the classroom and an active learning philosophy, extensive support and training, and a culture of high expectations, ACCS hopes to give Atlantic City’s children the building blocks for success.

Atlantic Community Charter School’s many offerings include:

• A rigorous curriculum aligned with New Jersey standards

• A safe, warm, and caring environment for students

• SmartBoards in every classroom

• Chromebooks for students in grades 3-6

• Anti-bullying support groups and services

• Comprehensive Parent-Teacher Organization

• Schoolwide behavior incentive program, “Caught You Being Good”