GREENVILLE, S.C. — Charter school enrollment is on the rise in South Carolina.

As of the 2022-23 school year, 49,486 students attend one of the state’s 88 charter schools. New data shows both numbers have increased over the past two years.

According to a study by the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, the Palmetto State has one of the fastest rates for charter school enrollment growth in the nation. The rate of growth appears to be faster in places where there is more capacity to expand, especially in smaller states.

Enrollment in S.C. grew 36.4% (14,339 students) since the 2020-21 academic year, while public school enrollment decreased by 1.01%.

Principal and Executive Director of Greer Middle College (GMC), Jimmy Armstrong, believes the shift could be seen as a reflection of parents and their concerns in the modern age. “Families have become more cognizant and conscientious, when it comes to how their child’s going to learn. And that’s kind of been a natural fit for charter schools,” said Armstrong.

Greer Middle College serves 535 students across grades nine through 12, with a focus on a project-based curriculum offering students technical training to prepare them for higher-education.

Armstrong observed a drastic switch in enrollment at GMC after the covid-19 pandemic. “Parents became more aware of how their child was being educated,” said Armstrong. “That focus has gone to where they want more of a family choice.”

As the trend grows, at least five charter schools are set to open over the next two years.

Armstrong and his team are among those with plans on the horizon. The grand opening of Greer Preparatory Academy is in the works. The new charter school will serve grades three through eight, just down the street from the existing campus.

“It’s a win-win for us in that we’re going to be serving more students,” said Armstrong. He believes the expansion will meet the growing demand for charter school enrollment opportunities.

Greer Preparatory Academy is scheduled to open in early 2026.