WE ARE CREW
Brighten Academy was the first charter school in Georgia that was started by a group of teachers. The educators who led the founding of our school aspired to provide a fertile foundation from which we could grow so that we could transform the way students learn and educators teach in our county and beyond.
What We Offer Our Scholars
Anchored in Excellence
Expeditionary Learning
Brighten integrates the EL model, which emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning. Students learn by doing, connecting academic skills to real-world applications and community projects.
Innovative Enrichment & Clubs
Brighten offers diverse extracurriculars, including student-led clubs, fine arts, Jr. Beta, STEM activities, and leadership opportunities. These programs let students explore passions and showcase talents outside the classroom.
7 C’s of Character Framework
Our instructional foundation is built on the 7 C’s (Commitment, Critical Thinking, Culture, Curiosity, Community, Creativity, and Craftsmanship). This framework nurtures not only academic growth but also ethical character and leadership.
Crew System (Advisory/Family Culture)
Every student belongs to a “crew,” a small group that builds relationships, accountability, and a sense of belonging. This system creates a family-like environment where students are seen, supported, and celebrated.
Whole-Child Focus
We balance academic rigor with character development, social-emotional learning, and equity. Brighten emphasizes joyful, safe learning where every student is encouraged to grow as both a scholar and a person.
Strong Parent & Community Partnerships
Through the Parent Crew, PTO, and community partnerships, Brighten actively involves families and local organizations in student learning and school culture—something that fosters deeper student support and opportunities.
ENGAGING STUDENT EXPERIENCES
At Brighten Academy, students don’t just learn—they experience learning. From hands-on projects and fieldwork to arts, athletics, and leadership opportunities, we create meaningful experiences that spark curiosity, build character, and connect learning to the real world. In addition to academics, students can explore extracurricular passions such as theater, drama, music, and clubs that encourage creativity, collaboration, and self-expression. Every child is encouraged to discover their strengths both inside and outside the classroom.
BE IN THE KNOW
After School Care
The Brighten Academy After School Program (ASP) offers homework help, creative play, and healthy snacks in a safe environment. The program hours are 3:00-6:00 p.m. Click the button below for more info!
7 C's
Crew, Craftsmanship, Critical Thinking, Curiosity, Creativity, Commitment, Community. Dive into the 7 Cs to see what each one means, what it looks like in action, and how we grow it at Brighten, at school and beyond.
PARENT RESOURCES
Visit our Parent Resources page for important documents, school-wide information, and links to support your student all year long.
Brighten Academy Community Business Directory – Sign Up Now!
We’d love to feature you in our new BACS Community Business Directory! It’s a great way to connect and support businesses within our school community and beyond.
Principal's Weekly Newsletter
Stay connected with Brighten Academy through the Principal’s Weekly Newsletter—your source for school updates, upcoming events, and celebrations of our Crew.
JOIN THE PTO!
Get involved with the PTO—parents and teachers working together to enrich the student experience.
Annual Birdies Fore Brighten 2026 Golf Tournament
April 2, 2026
About Birdies Fore Brighten
Brighten Academy Charter School (BACS) serves 800+students in grades K -8 in Douglas County GA. As a non profit public charter school, Brighten receives less funding than traditional schools, which requires us to raise approximately $1,500 per student every year to bridge our funding gap. (VIEW FLYER)
THE PHOENIX REPORT
Where We Are & Where We Are Headed
Access The Phoenix Report by clicking the link below; it contains everything you need to know in one convenient location.
Why Choose Us?
OUR ROOTS
Brighten Academy was Georgia’s first teacher-founded charter school, created to transform how students learn and educators teach. Before a building was designed or staff were hired, our Founders developed the mission and core beliefs that still guide us today. Established in 2005, Brighten opened its doors in August 2006 with 275 students.
OUR FOCUS
Our focus is on developing both students’ academic excellence and character—with consistent, year-over-year growth for every learner.
OUR MISSION
The mission of Brighten Academy is to nurture habits of scholarship and ethical character in a joyful, engaging, rigorous, and equitable learning environment. Inspired educators, in partnership with parents and the community, will ensure measured growth in every student every year and empower students to create a brighter future for our world.
Become a Brighten Phoenix
Brighten Academy Charter School is a joyful K–8 learning community in Douglasville where students grow academically and build strong character through our CREW culture. We’re anchored in high expectations, caring relationships, and meaningful learning experiences—so every student is known, challenged, and supported to thrive.
Quick Links
Click the link below to view the school calendar. Stay updated with all the important events and activities happening at Brighten Academy!
VIEW NOW!
School Supply Lists
To access the school supply lists for all grade levels at Brighten Academy, please click the link below.
VIEW NOW!
Career Opportunities
Join our team at Brighten Academy for the 26/27 school year! Click the link below to explore exciting career opportunities with us and see how you can make a difference in' lives. We look forward to welcoming passionate individuals who are ready to inspire educate.
APPLY NOW!
