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Frequently Asked Questions

Posted on by jmclaughlin

Eastern Panhandle Preparatory Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school opening in Fall 2022 for K-10 students. Located on a serene 30-acre, rural campus in Jefferson County, the school belongs to the acclaimed ACCEL Schools network and provides a college-prep curriculum aligned to state standards. A fully certified and licensed faculty promotes a culture of high expectations where students can grow academically as well as socially and emotionally. As a community-centered school, Eastern Panhandle Preparatory Academy builds strong relationships with our families, neighbors, and community organizations.

1. What grades will be offered for the 2022-23 school year?

We will offer PreK – 10 for the 22-23 School year and add an additional grade each year.

2. When is the first day of school?

Monday, August 22nd

3. What are the school hours?  

Building Hours: 7:30 am – 4:00 pm
Classroom Hours: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm

4. Will transportation be offered?  If yes, what is the process to receive transportation?  Who is eligible?

We are exploring the possibility of offering transportation in the surrounding areas. 

5.  Will there be clubs and extra-curricular opportunities for the students? Which grades can participate?

Sports and extracurricular will be offered to families based on interest. We will survey enrolled students/families to determine the level of interest.

We are in contact with WVSSAC to determine if EPPA students can participate in HS sports in their home district. More information will be provided later.

6. What is the dress code? 
  • Navy blue and/or white polo or button down shirt (long or short sleeve); No visible undergarments
  • Navy, or khaki slacks. NO COLORED DENIM may be worn. No jeans, cargo pockets, overalls, sweatpants, leggings or jeggings.
  • Navy, or khaki skirts, skorts, or jumpers, which must be knee length. No floor length dresses.
  • Navy, or khaki shorts, which must be knee length; shorts may be worn during the months of April through September only;
  • Black or brown belts must be worn around the waist (no “sagging”) when belt loops are present
  • Solid color dress shoes or plain white tennis shoes may be worn. – No deck shoes, moccasins, sandals or boots; shoes must be closed toed shoes.
  • Blue or white sweater or jacket
  • Hooded sweat shirts (Hoodies) are not allowed in the building 
  • Baseball caps are not allowed in the building
  • Students may wear Eastern Panhandle Prep Academy Attire at any time
  • Outer garments are to be stored during the school day. No hats or hoods may be kept on during the school day unless students are outside in inclement weather.
7. What is the academic model for Eastern Panhandle Preparatory Academy?  

Eastern Panhandle Preparatory Academy will follow the ACCEL Instructional Model (AIM).

Our instructional model is accredited by Cognia™ and provides the foundation of academic achievement for all students. AIM has eight key components to achieve strong academic results:

  • Curricula aligned with state standards
  • More Time on Task & double the instructional minutes for ELA and Math each day
  • Short Cycle Assessments to track student mastery of learning standards
  • Individualized Instruction differentiated to each student & driven by assessment data
  • State Testing Overview & Onboarding Activities that generate excitement and reduce anxiety by acquainting teachers and students with the structure and methodology of state exams
  • Academic Support including education technology, interventional specialists, and instructional aides during the school day, as well as after school tutoring, summer school, and Saturday school programs
  • Extracurricular Courses & Activities that focus on social-emotional learning, athletics, arts & more
  • Certified & Licensed Teachers and student-centered staff united in executing our mission to help students
8.  Will you offer full services for students with an IEP or special needs?  What is the process?

Yes, please indicate your student has an IEP on the student’s application and the principal will review and determine your child’s learning plan.

9.  What are your school colors?

Blue and gold.

10. What is your school mascot?

 Knights

11. How do I enroll my child?
12.  What documents are required to enroll my child/student? 
  • Proof of Student Identity & Guardianship
  • Proof of Residency
  • Immunization/Vaccine/Shot Records
13.  How can I submit the required documents needed to enroll?  
14.  What is the cutoff age for Kindergarten students?  

Each child who is five years of age on or before July 1st shall be eligible to enroll in kindergarten.  A child who does not meet this age requirement set forth above, can enroll in our PreKindergarten Program if they turn 4 by July 1st.

15.  Will you offer breakfast and lunch and is there a fee?

Breakfast and lunch will be served daily, from Lady J Caters. Families may be eligible for free breakfast and lunch. Forms will be available to see if you qualify for free and reduced lunch after July 1st. There will be more information provided regarding the Pay for service.
Breakfast Cost: $2.75
Lunch Cost: $4.25

16.  What is a charter school?

Charter schools are publicly funded, tuition-free, and generally open to all students—in this way they are similar to traditional public schools. However, charter schools have their own “charter” to operate independently, outside of the local school district. This gives charter schools more freedom in how they allocate their budgets and develop their educational offerings. For example, charter schools can model their programs around educational philosophies such as Montessori or create programs geared to athletics, STEM education, or performing arts. While charter schools have additional flexibility, they are still accountable to educational outcomes and can have their charter revoked if they do not meet the appropriate standards. Charter schools are strengthening our public education system by ensuring that more students, especially those from underserved communities, receive the high-quality education and services they need to thrive. Working together, charter and traditional public schools can improve learning for all students.