Whether you're a current HCA family or considering joining our Village, we’ve gathered the most common questions we hear — and the answers that help make things easier for you.

General Information

Is Horse Creek Academy a public school?
Yes! HCA is a tuition-free public charter school serving families across South Carolina. We are open to all students and funded through state and local tax dollars, just like traditional public schools — with one exception: our 4K program does have a tuition fee, which is based on a sliding scale according to family income.

Where is HCA located?
We are located in Aiken, SC, at 1200 Toolebeck Rd. We are excited to announcing that we are expanding with new sister campuses to serve additional communities with our newest location, HCA Kershaw, opening in Camden, SC in August 2025!

What grade levels do you serve?
We serve students in 4K through 12th grade with small class sizes of around 19 and a focus on the whole child.

Can I tour the school?
Yes! We offer public school tours several times each month, including one evening tour option. Tours are available from August through the end of April and provide a great way to experience our campus and culture in action. Learn more about tours here.

Enrollment

How do I enroll my child?
Enrollment at HCA is done through a lottery system. Families must apply during our Open Enrollment Period (typically in January), and seats are filled by a random drawing via our Lottery in February. Learn more on our Enrollment Page.

Is there a waitlist?
Yes. Due to high demand, many grade levels have waitlists. We continue to fill open seats throughout the year, typically until Spring Break.

Academics & Curriculum

What curriculum do you use?
HCA follows South Carolina State Standards and offers a well-rounded education with a focus on literacy, math, the arts, community service, and flexible instructional models.

Do you serve students with IEPs or 504 Plans?
Absolutely. We are committed to meeting the needs of all learners. HCA provides support services for students with IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) and 504 Plans in compliance with state and federal law.

Do you offer Gifted & Talented services?
Yes. We identify and serve gifted learners through state-approved programs and a variety of enrichment opportunities.

What makes your teaching approach different?
Our teachers are empowered to personalize learning and build strong relationships. School leaders also teach each quarter to stay connected and model strong instruction.

Culture & Community

What is the "Village" concept?
At HCA, we believe it takes a village to raise a child. Every family agrees to contribute at least 15 service hours per year — through volunteering, donations, or supporting school events.

What does a typical school day look like?
In Elementary School, our day runs from 8:00am-2:30pm; in Middle/High school our day runs from 8:20-3:20. Students experience core academic blocks, enrichment classes, recess, lunch, and community-building activities.

Programs & Services

Do you offer Early Care and After Care?
Yes! Early Care begins at 6:15 AM and After Care is available until 6:00 PM. These programs are fee-based and open to students in 5K–12th grade.

Are meals provided?
HCA is a bring your lunch school, but we are proud to help support students in need via our partnership with Golden Harvest Food Bank. We do offer snacks and pre-packaged lunch items via our HCA Cafe, and in middle/high school students have access to local food trucks. Make sure to read more over on our HCA Cafe Page.

What extracurriculars are available?
We offer a wide variety of clubs, arts programs, and sports. From robotics to FFA to middle and high school athletics, there's something for every interest. Clubs are student generated! If your child has an interest in starting a club all they need to do is find a sponsor who will help them complete a Club Request Form.

Transportation & Logistics

Is transportation provided?
Charter schools in South Carolina are not part of the state bus system. As such, HCA is a car line school, and families are responsible for drop-off and pick-up. Students with a valid driver's license may purchase a student parking permit and utlize an assigned space in our Back Parking Lot.

Do any buses come to campus?
Yes — while we do not operate school buses, some local childcare organizations provide transportation from our campus to their afterschool programs for registered students. HCA does not coordinate these registrations, it is something families are responsible for.

Can I walk my child to school?
For safety and consistency, all students must be dropped off through the car line or, if they have a valid Driver's Liceense, may park in their assigned space in our Back Parking Lot.

Communication

How do you communicate with families?
We use a combination of the HCA app, email newsletters, social media, and classroom updates to keep families informed. Transparent communication is one of our pillars.

Who do I contact with questions?
You can reach our main office at 803-226-0160. For specific staff emails, visit our Staff Directory Page.

Don’t see your question here?
We’re always happy to help, give us a call!