Tybee Island Charter School Inc.

Tybee Island Charter School Inc. is a nonprofit organization that operates the Tybee Island Maritime Academy, a public charter school located on Tybee Island, Georgia. The organization is recognized for its unique approach to education, offering a maritime-themed curriculum that integrates career and project-based learning for students in grades K-8.

Overview

Tybee Island Charter School Inc. is established as a nonprofit entity, with an Employer Identification Number (EIN) of 451500099. It functions under the terms of a charter contract with the state and local boards of education, providing public funding and accountability in exchange for operational flexibility.

Programs and Curriculum

The Tybee Island Maritime Academy, overseen by Tybee Island Charter School Inc., features a distinct maritime focus in its curriculum. Students learn about coastal habitats, marine life, and maritime professions through experiential learning, including frequent visits to the beach and field trips to sites such as the Port of Savannah. The school aims to provide students with early exposure to maritime education, fostering potential career paths in industries like logistics and marine operations.

Governance and Admission

The school operates under an autonomous nonprofit board of directors, which oversees its educational programs and policies. Admission to the school is through a lottery system, with preferences given to siblings of current students and children of staff members. Additionally, the school uses a weighted lottery system to increase opportunities for economically disadvantaged students.

Achievements

Tybee Island Maritime Academy has successfully established itself as a premier educational institution in Chatham County, surpassing state and district averages on performance indexes. The school emphasizes inclusive practices to mirror the diversity of the broader community.

Community Involvement

Tybee Island Charter School Inc. supports strong parent involvement through its Parent Teacher Volunteer Association (PTVA), encouraging collaboration between parents and educators to enhance educational experiences and resources.