Smithson Craighead Academy is a public charter school offering scholars in grades K-5 a free, rigorous education rooted in strong literacy instruction and high expectations.
Our K-2 classrooms create a strong foundation for future learning. Kindergarteners are grouped with peers of similar skills, allowing teachers to close gaps and build on pre-K gains. By the end of second grade, our goal is for every scholar to read independently.
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We measure middle school readiness not just by grades, but on a scholar’s mastery of the skills, knowledge, and habits they need at the next level of their education and beyond. Our scholars develop a work ethic and discernment to open doors throughout their lives.
Our Story
Our teachers are provided with a base salary well above the market average. They can also earn financial rewards by improving their practice through our Teacher Report Card program – because when teachers get better, scholars do too.
Meet Our TeamSmithson Craighead Academy is a program of Project Reflect, the nonprofit founded by the late Sister Sandra Smithson. Sister Sandra and her biological sister, Mary Craighead, co-founded the school—hence its name.Our scholars and their families have access to Project Reflect’s full circle of support, including affordable pre-K at Itty Bitty City, free afterschool tutoring, a food pantry, a diaper closet, and more.
Our Founding Story
Smithson Craighead Academy is accepting kindergarten through 5th grade applications for the 2026–2027 school year. Follow these steps to apply: