Two Classical Academies to Open in Greater Columbus
Whether you are familiar with the time-tested virtues of classical education, or you are a parent searching for a traditional, rigorous, and inspiring program for your child, we have exciting news for you.
Cumberland Grove and Darby Oak Classical Academies’ curriculum is rich in language and history, builds inquiry through math and science, and seeks beauty in art and music.
Introducing our founding schools
Both academies offer a traditional, liberal arts education designed to cultivate not just intelligent students, but wise, virtuous, and capable citizens.
Cumberland Grove
Darby Oak
Serving Western Franklin County, as well as Madison, Union, and Delaware.
Inaugural grade levels for Fall 2027
Strength of mind and body
Our curriculum is rooted in the classical tradition, a proven method for developing wise and virtuous citizens that aligns with a child’s natural cognitive development. We emphasize mastery of the English language, historical literacy, mathematical and scientific foundational truths, and the study of classical languages.
Sports and robust fitness programming are integral to classical practice. These programs foster the teamwork, discipline, physical resilience, and leadership skills of a well-formed character.
Location updates
Students thrive in an orderly environment, and each campus is designed to reflect the classical virtue of beauty. Site selection is in progress, and locations will be announced later this year.
Backed by a legacy of excellence
These academies are founded by Performance Academies, Ohio’s home grown charter organization now in its 25th year, serving 4,000 students annually. Performance Academies is among the finest charter organizations in the state, with 100% of its original twelve schools having achieved the exceptional ranking of Quality Community School.
Both new academies are proud to be authorized by the Ohio Council of Community Schools (OCCS). As Ohio’s original state-authorized charter school sponsor, OCCS’s reputation for holding schools to the highest academic, operational, and fiscal standards ensures a foundation of unshakeable integrity and performance.
Join our founding team
Building an exceptional school requires exceptional leadership. We are actively seeking visionary educators and community advocates to join us in building Cumberland Grove and Darby Oak.
Principal / Headmaster (Both Schools)
We are conducting a nationwide search for two dynamic educational leaders who are passionate about the classical model and capable of establishing a culture of “High Standards. Highest Values. Timeless Virtues.” from day one.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please fill out the form below.
Cumberland Grove
We are seeking four community-connected, enthusiastic individuals to join our founding community outreach team and help us connect with families in our varied communities.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please fill out the form below.
Founding Families & Founding Team interest list
Tell us a bit about your family or your background, and we’ll keep you updated on enrollment, events, and opportunities as Cumberland Grove and Darby Oak get closer to opening.
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Frequently asked questions
Are Cumberland Grove and Darby Oak private schools, and what is the cost of tuition?
No, they are not private schools. Cumberland Grove and Darby Oak are tuition-free Ohio charter schools, so there is absolutely no tuition. However, students do wear uniforms and some extracurricular activities may have appropriate fees.
Are tuition-free charter schools open to all?
Any student who resides in Ohio is eligible to enroll in our public community schools space permitting. Because we are public schools, we do not have selective admissions; if demand exceeds available seats, students are admitted through a public random lottery.
What grade levels will the schools serve?
Both campuses plan to open in Fall 2027 serving grades K–8. We are prepared to launch high school grades (9–12) in our inaugural year if application volume is strong, or in subsequent years as our students advance.
Are diplomas from a classical charter school valid? Will students take state tests?
Yes. A diploma from our academies carries the exact same legal standing as any other diploma issued in Ohio. As public charter schools, our students operate under the same Ohio Department of Education and Workforce graduation and testing requirements as traditional public schools.
What makes a “Classical” education different from a traditional public school?
Our curriculum is sequential, systematic, and rigorous, focused on mastery of the English language, historical literacy, mathematical and scientific truths, classical languages, art and music. Beyond academics, our model relies on a time-tested structure, and the formation of virtuous character, including self-discipline and conscience.
How do you approach technology in the classroom?
We take a low-screen-time approach in the foundational years, prioritizing direct instruction, deep reading, physical writing, and interpersonal discussion. In upper grades, students learn computational and design technology for academic purposes. In accordance with Ohio state law, students do not carry cell phones during school hours.
Are sports and physical education part of the curriculum?
Absolutely. A true classical education recognizes that a healthy mind requires a healthy body. Sports, physical education, and fitness are integral pillars of our programming, developing the teamwork, resilience, and leadership skills necessary for comprehensive character development.
Do teachers need to be licensed?
Generally, yes, though more importantly our teachers should be excellent instructors. Ohio charter schools may hire teachers with bachelor’s degrees under alternative licensure, including education and career experience that demonstrates subject mastery. We seek teachers who know or are willing to learn the methods and practices of classical learning, and who thrive on developing young hearts and minds.
Who oversees the operational and financial health of the schools?
The schools are governed by a 501(c)(3) board, authorized by the Ohio Council of Community Schools (OCCS), and operated by Performance Academies. OCCS provides oversight to ensure we meet our charter contract, academic performance standards, and state and federal regulations. Performance Academies reports financial and academic results at each board meeting and complies with all audit requirements.
What leadership and staff positions are currently open?
We are conducting a nationwide search for two Principal/Headmaster positions to lead the Cumberland Grove and Darby Oak campuses, plus four immediate openings for part-time Marketing Representatives. Teaching and administrative positions will be posted as we move closer to our Fall 2027 opening. If interested, submit your resume using the form above so school leaders can get in touch.