COLUMBIA, S.C. – Two Charter Institute at Erskine (Institute) schools have earned statewide recognition in The State’s Best 2025 competition. Odyssey Online Learning (Odyssey) and Clear Dot Charter School (Clear Dot) have been voted on by the community as two of South Carolina’s top charter schools, reflecting their commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student success.
“These recognitions highlight the exceptional work being done by our schools and their educators every day,” said Institute Superintendent Cameron Runyan. “We are excited to see Odyssey Online Learning and Clear Dot Charter School celebrated for the student-focused, innovative education they provide to children across South Carolina.”
Odyssey, a virtual public charter school, was awarded the Gold Best Charter School and Bronze Best High School awards. Odyssey has reimagined education in the digital age by providing a virtual individualized approach to academic and career preparation to more than 600 students in grades 6-12 across the state.
“We’re thrilled that our community chose Odyssey for not one, but two awards,” said Odyssey Chief Executive Officer, Ashley Owings. “Our students, teachers, and families are dedicated to achieving student success, and the level of growth that we have seen over the last few years demonstrates that commitment.”
Clear Dot, a 4K-12 school located in downtown Columbia, earned Silver Best Charter School honor. This is the second consecutive year the school has been voted by the community as one of The State’s Best. Clear Dot emphasizes high academic standards, character development, and the cultivation of global citizenship in an inclusive, nurturing environment where every student can thrive. It serves nearly 500 students from Columbia and its surrounding communities.
“Clear Dot has always been rooted in community and relationships,” said Clear Dot Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Lindsey Ott. “This award is that much more meaningful to us because it reaffirms our commitment and shows that our school matters to the community just as much as the community matters to us.”
The Charter Institute at Erskine is the fastest-growing school district in South Carolina. Serving 28 schools and 30,000 students across the state, the Charter Institute at Erskine is committed to innovative, creative, high-quality methods of education. For more information about the Institute and its schools, please visit www.erskinecharters.org.
