Question 1

What is a charter school?

Accepted Answer

A charter school is an independently run yet tuition-free public school. These schools accept greater flexibility and freedom in their operations in return for greater accountability for performance and scholar achievement.

Question 2

What is the difference between charter schools and other public schools?

Accepted Answer

Charter schools are public schools of choice, meaning that families choose them for their children. They operate with freedom from some of the regulations imposed upon district schools. Our charter school is not part of the local school district, but instead, we are seeking to be authorized by the SC Public Charter School District (SCPCSD). If approved, the SCPCSD holds us accountable for academic results and upholding the promises made in our charter. Every year we must demonstrate performance in academic achievement, financial management, and organizational stability.

Question 3

My child has special needs. Can they apply for enrollment and attend Liberty STEAM Charter?

Accepted Answer

Of course! All disability categories are welcomed at LSC. In addition, we serve English Language Learners and scholars meeting the poverty criteria. Everyone is welcome!

Question 4

If my scholar attends Liberty STEAM Charter, do they have to take the state standardized tests?

Accepted Answer

Yes — the federal government does not exempt charter school scholars from participating in standardized testing.

Question 5

Is transportation provided?

Accepted Answer

Transportation will be available at a later date as we expand our Academies.

Question 6

Do scholars at Liberty STEAM Charter receive the same state standards that scholars in traditional schools are taught?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — while LSC has the freedom to choose its curriculum, it must align with the standards established by the South Carolina State Board of Education.

Question 7

Is Liberty STEAM Charter accredited like other traditional public schools?

Accepted Answer

Yes — South Carolina has a rigorous accreditation process for charter schools to ensure its charter schools are recognized by all stakeholders as meeting operational expectations. Accreditation is extended through the charter school’s official sponsor and must be renewed regularly, just like other traditional schools are required to do.

Question 8

How can I enroll my scholar?

Accepted Answer

You can begin your scholar’s enrollment process here!(https://www.libertysteamcharter.org/enroll-now)

Question 9

How can I volunteer?

Accepted Answer

Producing well-rounded, globally-minded citizens takes effort beyond the classroom and beyond our own network. Having the support of our families and community is critical to the success of our scholars. Click here (https://www.libertysteamcharter.org/get-involved)to learn more about how you can get involved!

Question 10

How can I donate?

Accepted Answer

Preparing our highly credentialed scholars requires support from the community we serve. By supporting LSC, you support our scholars and provide them access to a robust public school education that will equip them for success in college and beyond. Click here (https://www.libertysteamcharter.org/support)to learn more about how you can support LSC!

Question 11

How can I work at Liberty STEAM Charter?

Accepted Answer

Working at LSC isn’t just a job, but rather it’s a call to join like-minded people working together to create generation-changing opportunities for Sumter’s children. As Sumter’s first tuition-free, open-enrollment public charter school, our team is uniquely positioned to impact scholars by providing them high-quality learning experiences to become not only highly skilled and educated job seekers but job creators. We sincerely believe it’s our collective efforts that will unleash our scholars' potential and develop them academically, socially, and emotionally.
Do you have what it takes to be a teacher with LSC? Apply today!(https://www.libertysteamcharter.org/ourteam)

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Administrator

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Administrator

Marketing Director

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Frequently Asked Questions

Transforming Sumter,

One Scholar at a Time