Is Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School a good school?

Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School ranks 1138 th of 1526 Pennsylvania alternative schools. SchoolDigger rates this school 1 star out of 5.

How many students attend Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School?

In the 2023-24 school year, 23,589 students attended Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School.

What is the racial makeup of Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School?

Students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School are 57% White, 18% Hispanic, 16% African American, 7% Two or more races.

Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Summary:

Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School is a large virtual public charter school serving over 20,000 students in grades K-12 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. While the school has seen fluctuations in its graduation and dropout rates in recent years, it consistently underperforms the state average on standardized test scores across all grade levels and subjects.

Compared to nearby schools like Reach Cyber Charter School and Cougar Academy, Commonwealth Charter Academy outperforms them on most academic metrics, including graduation and dropout rates. However, the school still lags behind the state averages. This may be due to the school's relatively high percentage of students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch, suggesting the student population faces greater economic challenges. Additionally, the school's per-student spending is generally lower than Reach Cyber Charter School, which could contribute to the academic underperformance.

Another area of concern is the consistent decline in Commonwealth Charter Academy's PSSA and Keystone Exam proficiency rates, particularly in Math and English Language Arts. As a virtual charter school, the school may face unique challenges in delivering effective instruction and support to its students. Further analysis and investigation into the school's practices and strategies could help identify areas for improvement and better support its student population.

Detail:

Public, Charter, Virtual, Alternative K-12

One Innovation Way
Harrisburg, PA 17110

(717) 710-3300

District: Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

SchoolDigger Rank:
1138^th of 1,526 Pennsylvania Alternative Schools

Per Pupil Expenditures: $11,825

Student/teacher ratio: 16.4

Number of students: 23,589

Racial breakdown:

White:

57.2%

Hispanic:

17.8%

African American:

16.2%

Free/discounted lunch recipients: 59.1%

See top rated Pennsylvania elementary schools

Compare Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School to nearby alternative schools!

Performance Trends

Compare Details Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School ranks worse than 74.6% of elementary schools in Pennsylvania. (See more...)

Compare Details In 2024 the calculated Average Standard Score was 26.95. (See more...)

Compare Details Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School ranks worse than 66.4% of middle schools in Pennsylvania. (See more...)

Compare Details In 2024 the calculated Average Standard Score was 34.94. (See more...)

Compare Details Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School ranks worse than 83.4% of high schools in Pennsylvania. (See more...)

Compare Details In 2024 the calculated Average Standard Score was 16.78. (See more...)

The four-year cohort graduation rate measures the percentage of students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School who earn a standard high school diploma within four years of starting ninth grade.

The high school dropout rate measures the percentage of students who do not complete their high school education.

Student Body

Compare Details Student population at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School is diverse. Racial makeup is: White (57.2%), Hispanic (17.8%), African American (16.2%). (See more...)

Compare Details 59.1% of students are receiving a free or discounted lunch. (See more...)

Teachers

Compare Details The student/teacher ratio at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School is 16.4. (See more...)

Compare Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School employs 1431.5 full-time teachers.

Finance

Compare Details The average total spent per student at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School is $11,825.

Schooldigger 2024 Rankings:

Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School:

SchoolDigger ranks Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School 1138^th of 1526 Pennsylvania public elementary schools. (See Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School in the ranking list.)

Elementary School Test Score Ratings by Student Subgroup:

Multi-racial students:

Low Socio Economic Status students:

Female students:

Disabled students:

Male students:

African American students:

Hispanic students:

White students:

SchoolDigger ranks Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School 592^nd of 891 Pennsylvania public middle schools. (See Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School in the ranking list.)

Middle School Test Score Ratings by Student Subgroup:

Multi-racial students:

Low Socio Economic Status students:

Female students:

Disabled students:

Male students:

African American students:

Hispanic students:

White students:

SchoolDigger ranks Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School 572^nd of 686 Pennsylvania public high schools. (See Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School in the ranking list.)

High School Test Score Ratings by Student Subgroup:

Multi-racial students:

English Language Learner students:

Low Socio Economic Status students:

Female students:

Disabled students:

Male students:

Asian students:

African American students:

Hispanic students:

White students:

Average Parent Rating:

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Rank History for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

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Rank History for all elementary school students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Elementary Schools	PA State Percentile
2004	16.06	1118^th	1308	14.5%
2005	15.93	1129^th	1299	13.1%
2006	10.61	1417^th	1545	8.3%
2007	21.72	1344^th	1555	13.6%
2008	22.69	1324^th	1551	14.6%
2009	18.96	1362^nd	1549	12.1%
2010	18.74	1381^st	1579	12.5%
2011	20.39	1396^th	1597	12.6%
2012	20.25	1364^th	1599	14.7%
2015	19.74	1185^th	1474	19.6%
2016	17.04	1288^th	1554	17.1%
2017	15.22	1300^th	1547	16.0%
2018	20.99	1233^rd	1530	19.4%
2019	14.41	1302^nd	1544	15.7%
2021	56.80	705^th	1433	50.8%
2022	43.07	994^th	1534	35.2%
2023	35.15	1078^th	1534	29.7%
2024	26.95	1138^th	1526	25.4%

See the entire list of Pennsylvania Alternative School Rankings!

Rank History for elementary school Multi-racial students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Elementary Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	51.64	44^th	117	62.4%
2024	25.41	95^th	128	25.8%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Multi-racial Students!

Rank History for elementary school Low Socio Economic Status students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Elementary Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	33.16	1025^th	1414	27.5%
2024	18.00	1212^th	1432	15.4%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Low Socio Economic Status Students!

Rank History for elementary school Female students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Elementary Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2024	22.84	1160^th	1488	22.0%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Female Students!

Rank History for elementary school Disabled students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Elementary Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	48.69	487^th	1043	53.3%
2024	44.73	564^th	1084	48.0%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Disabled Students!

Rank History for elementary school Male students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Elementary Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2024	31.39	1080^th	1495	27.8%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Male Students!

Rank History for elementary school African American students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Elementary Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	39.09	251^st	437	42.6%
2024	36.77	271^st	437	38.0%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for African American Students!

Rank History for elementary school Hispanic students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Elementary Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	47.71	221^st	432	48.8%
2024	32.57	324^th	454	28.6%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Hispanic Students!

Rank History for elementary school White students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Elementary Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	22.40	1051^st	1236	15.0%
2024	15.74	1112^th	1229	9.5%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for White Students!

Data source: test scores: Pennsylvania Department of Education, rankings: SchoolDigger.com

Rank History for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

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Rank History for all middle school students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Middle Schools	PA State Percentile
2004	45.59	449^th	663	32.3%
2005	30.33	539^th	687	21.5%
2006	20.12	625^th	736	15.1%
2007	28.94	602^nd	749	19.6%
2008	36.77	556^th	753	26.2%
2009	30.01	616^th	770	20.0%
2010	28.74	650^th	805	19.3%
2011	34.17	639^th	825	22.5%
2012	26.03	664^th	834	20.4%
2015	27.43	610^th	835	26.9%
2016	25.43	643^rd	870	26.1%
2017	21.95	663^rd	877	24.4%
2018	24.86	636^th	861	26.1%
2019	20.95	679^th	891	23.8%
2021	56.73	335^th	797	58.0%
2022	58.98	367^th	883	58.4%
2023	42.21	537^th	893	39.9%
2024	34.94	592^nd	891	33.6%

See the entire list of Pennsylvania Alternative School Rankings!

Rank History for middle school Multi-racial students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Middle Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	45.30	96^th	187	48.7%
2024	32.80	130^th	199	34.7%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Multi-racial Students!

Rank History for middle school Low Socio Economic Status students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Middle Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	41.97	520^th	874	40.5%
2024	29.14	637^th	877	27.4%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Low Socio Economic Status Students!

Rank History for middle school Female students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Middle Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2024	34.12	583^rd	860	32.2%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Female Students!

Rank History for middle school Disabled students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Middle Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	46.64	298^th	660	54.8%
2024	51.37	255^th	672	62.1%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Disabled Students!

Rank History for middle school Male students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Middle Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2024	33.93	584^th	870	32.9%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Male Students!

Rank History for middle school African American students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Middle Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	55.09	150^th	421	64.4%
2024	36.99	236^th	408	42.2%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for African American Students!

Rank History for middle school Hispanic students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Middle Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	48.83	173^rd	362	52.2%
2024	38.74	214^th	362	40.9%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Hispanic Students!

Rank History for middle school White students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked Middle Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	26.52	540^th	681	20.7%
2024	21.15	569^th	673	15.5%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for White Students!

Data source: test scores: Pennsylvania Department of Education, rankings: SchoolDigger.com

Rank History for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

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Rank History for all high school students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile
2008	21.34	539^th	621	13.2%
2009	18.44	557^th	632	11.9%
2010	14.29	587^th	649	9.6%
2011	29.05	543^rd	660	17.7%
2012	20.93	574^th	664	13.6%
2015	15.36	576^th	680	15.3%
2016	15.42	579^th	677	14.5%
2017	13.67	566^th	663	14.6%
2018	18.16	556^th	673	17.4%
2019	12.42	596^th	693	14.0%
2021	15.72	481^st	537	10.4%
2022	29.30	497^th	634	21.6%
2023	26.41	527^th	674	21.8%
2024	16.78	572^nd	686	16.6%

See the entire list of Pennsylvania Alternative School Rankings!

Rank History for high school Multi-racial students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	17.93	106^th	129	17.8%
2024	29.06	110^th	150	26.7%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Multi-racial Students!

Rank History for high school English Language Learner students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	20.26	78^th	85	8.2%
2024	41.50	45^th	84	46.4%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for English Language Learner Students!

Rank History for high school Low Socio Economic Status students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	23.33	529^th	652	18.9%
2024	14.71	575^th	664	13.4%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Low Socio Economic Status Students!

Rank History for high school Female students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2024	15.91	552^nd	665	17.0%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Female Students!

Rank History for high school Disabled students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	44.12	241^st	502	52.0%
2024	32.67	331^st	513	35.5%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Disabled Students!

Rank History for high school Male students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2024	16.62	558^th	662	15.7%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Male Students!

Rank History for high school Asian students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2024	15.18	105^th	121	13.2%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Asian Students!

Rank History for high school African American students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	36.21	154^th	260	40.8%
2024	22.72	220^th	284	22.5%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for African American Students!

Rank History for high school Hispanic students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	25.38	194^th	252	23.0%
2024	18.40	231^st	274	15.7%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for Hispanic Students!

Rank History for high school White students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Avg Standard Score	Statewide Rank	Total # Ranked High Schools	PA State Percentile	SchoolDigger Rating
2023	16.42	517^th	577	10.4%
2024	8.27	562^nd	595	5.5%

See the entire list of Best Pennsylvania Alternative Schools for White Students!

Data source: test scores: Pennsylvania Department of Education, rankings: SchoolDigger.com

As you review the school rankings data, please be aware that some of the information from certain demographics is missing. The reason for this omission is that the data has been redacted from the source data itself due to low population samples in these specific demographic groups.

Redacting data from low population samples is a necessary step to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the results, as small sample sizes may not be representative of the broader population. Additionally, this measure helps protect the privacy of individuals belonging to these demographic groups.

Data source: Pennsylvania Dept of Education

Review counts

All ratings (Avg rating: 5)

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Reviews:

by a parent
Thursday, July 3, 2014

CCA has provided a wonderful experience for my 6th grader, who will be entering his third year with the school. We both have enjoyed the opportunities CCA has given us to work together. My son loves that he can focus on his work, without distractions as well he loves all the field trips!!! When I asked him what he likes about CCA he said: "It's just a great school" As a parent, I like the flexibility and that his teachers are so available to us. The teachers we have met have been wonderful. Communication between student, home and school is very good!! Close Quote

by a parent on FaceBook
Tuesday, August 6, 2013

Both my 7th grade son and 5th grade daughter were bored in brick and mortar school. As a parent, I was tired of constantly fighting for what they needed, dealing with superintendent and school board directors, bullying, school buses, uniforms, and other parents/children that I really didn't want my children around.
Placement testing showed that my children were 2 years ahead in math and gifted and talented in all other areas. What an eye opener for me!!!
The first week to 2 weeks, we changed our routine until we found one that suited our family. After the initial 2 weeks, it was smooth sailing with children who now applied themselves and were super eager to learn again. No more arguing to do school work. Teachers are fantastic and anticipate the needs of my children. What a relief for me!
My son is very active in Boy Scouts and completing school early gave him the opportunity to work on many Merit Badges and his Eagle Scout Project.
My daughter prefers to sleep later in the morning and work on lessons later in the day.
CCA enhanced my children's relationship because they now help one another instead of fighting! It has provided us more family time, an adjustable schedule, more involvement from dad who works 2 jobs and would miss quite a bit when they were at brick and mortar, a much bigger participant in their education without the stress of arguing or fighting for what they need, and socialization through clubs and field trips.
My only regret-I didn't make the change years earlier! Close Quote

by a parent
Saturday, August 3, 2013

Because my son didn't feel safe at his old school after being bullied, we began researching schools. I was always drawn back to Commonwealth Connections Academy (CCA). The lesson schedule CCA offers is very flexible. Because the teachers are easily accessible, we can easily discuss any problem areas, get clarifications on lessons, and ask questions. CCA utilizes both textbooks as well as online programs and tools that engage children and make learning fun. CCA offers a wide variety of electives, clubs, and field trips to all students. When I expressed concerns pertaining to my child's progress, CCA immediately started the evaluation process for various learning disabilities. The school then assigned a Special Education Teacher, drafted an IEP and added the appropriate services. This is the type of personal care and sincere interest I have come to expect from CCA. Everyone I have ever dealt with at CCA has been professional, courteous, caring, and knowledgeable. Not once have I regretted my decision to enroll my son in Commonwealth Connections Academy. He has come out of his shell and found a place where he feels comfortable being his unique self. To me, the healing he has experienced is priceless! Close Quote

by a parent
Saturday, July 27, 2013

Connections Academy offers public online education & guidance from state certified, fabulous teachers. This schooling allows my children to learn at their own pace and to enjoy hands on learning with more time for experiments and educational trips. There are so many opportunities to meet other students/friends through Live Lessons, Educational Field Trips, Social Field Trips, and Elective Classes (such as Chess Club, Robotics Club, Julliard Music Classes, Language Class, etc.). It is important to me that I know what is being taught to my children. My children are nationally ranked speed skaters and this school schedule allows them to participate in practices and speed skating meets all over the country. It also allows them to volunteer and participate in community service projects. They are getting a full education while having the opportunity to learn other life lessons at the same time. My children have been enrolled in public, private and now online schools. Connections Academy is by far their favorite...and mine too!! Close Quote

by a parent
Saturday, July 27, 2013

I chose Connections Academy because my son was in fourth grade in a bricks and mortar school. He had a bad seizure disorder since he was about 3 years old. The school one day let him go to the restroom and did not follow up on him even though he was missing for about 20 minutes. So of course you can figure out that he had a bad seizure while in the restroom. He finally came to enough and tried to crawl and get help. Before he got to the nurses station he had another seizure in the hall. By the time a student saw him and got the nurse his eyes was rolled back and was shaking all over. Instead of calling 911 they left him lay in the nurses station until they got a hold of me at work which was about 2 hours. Because I worked in a nursing home and when you was in a room with the door closed I could not hear the page. Finally my head boss came up into the room I was in and told me that I needed to go now that my son was at the school in a bad seizure. By the time I got to the school he was so bad that I had to call 911.Once he arrived at the hospital they had to put him into a comma to get him out of the seizure. So after that he went back to school about a week later. Then the school treated him like a infant. He was not allowed to go to the bathroom except in the nurses office and could not lock the door. They would not let him play on any outdoor play equipment. So I had them go with me to a doctors appointment and talk with the doctor. They told the school that he could be treated like a normal kid except to watch him and not let him go missing for over 5 minutes. The doctor also told them that he could not remember well and to check his backpack for his work. So my son came home crying every day for a week and told me that he lost snack and playtime. So I spoke with the teacher and she told me that he was not turning in his work. So I pulled the doctors paper out and reminded her that she needed to check. Her words to me was I don't have time to treat him any different than the other students. So as you can see that's why I went with Connections Academy for his education as well as his well being. My son will be graduating this coming school year because Connections Academy made it possible for him to learn at his own pace. Connections Academy is a great school and can bend to any child whether the child is slow, right own pace or advanced. I can't say enough about Connections Academy they are Awesome... Close Quote

by a parent
Wednesday, August 22, 2012

CCA is a wonderful school! My son has been afforded the opportunity to work at his own pace and avoid slipping through the cracks. He is able to live up to his full potential! He is now 8 and entering the 5th grade, with 6th grade math. I am a PA certified teacher and know that he would never have been able to progress to this extent in a typical public school! We love that it's free, of course, but also that it give us so much flexibilty! The teachers are great and are always willing to help. I cannot imagine putting my children in any other school! Close Quote

by a parent
Thursday, May 3, 2012

I researched MANY cyber charter schools when deciding on this type of non-traditional school. CCA is set apart from the other cyber charters by their teacher involvement and fabulous community field trips. My son has dyslexia and was struggling. His self esteem was slowly diminishing each year he continued thru the brick and mortar school and in 6th grade we decided we needed to change something. Now that he is able to work at his own pace that stress is gone and he has regained his positive and amazing outlook on life. He completes a regular course load of work some of which is harder than what he was doing at his other school. I work full time so he is responsible for getting a lot of his work completed during the day so there still is stress but in a different and more controlled form. I see a good difference in him. He's confident but yet knows he is not perfect, because this school work is not easier. This school is definitely worth looking into if you are interested in cyber charter schooling for your child. Close Quote

by a parent
Tuesday, January 10, 2012

I have used CA for my DD (now 7), since K. We are now half way through 2nd grade, and I am very satisfied with it. I chose CA due to my ex wanting DD to go to a public school and me wanting to home school. CA is the perfect mix of the two, and I will highly recommend it for any parent who is bound by court orders and bull-headed exes.

The curriculum is a little easy so I supplement with other activities. But DD at the age of 6 was playing chess and learning Spanish, this year we are learning French and music. The school sends us all the books and equipment needed, and our teacher is wonderful. We are in contact almost every day either by email or call.

We are required by state to have 5 hours of 'educational instruction' and the school is very flexible with what this includes. We have counted roller-skating, farmer's market trips, grocery shopping, cooking, and many other things as school.

I will say that we do not have as much freedom as traditional homeschooling. I can't switch programs if I don't like it, we can't jump ahead to what she already knows and go from there. However, I also have the freedom that comes with not going to a bricks & mortar school. We can breeze through ten lessons in an hour if she understands it already, no sitting through the whole class.

The teachers are very good at finding something that does not click with us. We didn't like their typing program, so we asked for a substitute. We got one and this one clicked! The teachers are good at letting us know what is needed for finishing out the year. They are also good at accommodating different religions and beliefs, as the lessons are taught by the parents or learning coach.

CA also offers many opportunities for field trips and clubs for the students. Socialization is not a problem.

All in all, I'm glad I found CA and will recommend it to anyone! Close Quote

by a student
Saturday, December 10, 2011

It is one of the best schools out public and virtual schools!!! Close Quote

Enrollment information for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

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Year	White	African American	Asian	Hispanic	American Indian	Pacific Islander	Two or More Races	Not Specified	Total
2004	305	50	1	17	4	n/a	n/a	0	377
2005	493	106	4	14	9	n/a	n/a	0	626
2006	749	184	14	47	8	n/a	n/a	0	1002
2007	1120	254	8	58	9	n/a	n/a	0	1449
2008	1179	296	14	54	9	n/a	n/a	147	1699
2009	1960	480	25	114	7	n/a	n/a	150	2736
2010	2772	635	42	186	17	n/a	n/a	0	3652
2011	3197	697	37	285	18	2	188	0	4424
2012	3974	809	46	435	20	3	263	0	5550
2013	4737	969	47	575	23	6	310	0	6667
2014	5590	1140	82	799	30	14	382	0	8037
2015	6053	1244	106	858	35	13	459	0	8768
2016	5956	1344	117	899	37	10	514	0	8877
2017	5917	1478	111	924	37	7	500	0	8974
2018	5661	1393	87	926	23	8	494	0	8592
2019	5236	1465	61	1362	0	17	620	0	8761
2020	5411	1641	91	1438	44	17	652	0	9294
2021	10098	2270	164	2381	76	47	1383	0	16419
2022	10830	2817	222	2850	61	42	1265	0	18087
2023	11678	3385	199	3532	69	49	1443	0	20355
2024	13492	3822	223	4191	89	43	1729	0	23589

Data source: National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Dept of Education.

About Enrollment/Ethnicity

For more information about how the Department of Education defines ethnicity, see Defining Race and Ethnicity Data, National Center for Education Statistics

Students eligible for free or discounted lunch at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

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Year	# Students	Full-time Teachers	Student/Teacher ratio	% Free/Discounted Lunch
2004	377	8.0	47.1	0
2005	626	15.0	41.7	0
2006	1002	24.0	41.8	0
2007	1449	36.0	40.3	0
2008	1699	77.0	22.1	n/a
2009	2736	108.0	25.3	n/a
2010	3652	137.5	26.5	48.2
2011	4424	175.5	25.2	48.1
2012	5550	203.5	27.2	50.7
2013	6667	268.1	24.8	52.8
2014	8037	317.1	25.3	52.7
2015	8768	332.0	26.4	52.6
2016	8877	341.0	26.0	n/a
2017	8974	331.0	27.1	n/a
2018	8592	341.0	25.1	n/a
2019	8761	346.9	25.2	52.8
2020	9294	371.5	25.0	n/a
2021	16419	525.0	31.2	48.8
2022	18087	880.5	20.5	51.4
2023	20355	1170.5	17.3	n/a
2024	23589	1431.5	16.4	59.1

Data source: National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Dept of Education.

About Students eligible for discounted/free lunch:

The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) provides low-cost or free meals to students in U.S. public and nonprofit private schools based on household income. Those with incomes below 130% of the poverty line receive free lunch, while those between 130% and 185% qualify for reduced-price lunch. The percentage of students receiving free or reduced-price lunch serves as a marker for poverty, as it reflects the socioeconomic status of families in a given school or district. A higher FRPL rate typically indicates a higher concentration of low-income families, suggesting that the school or district may face additional challenges in providing adequate resources and support for student success.

Student/Teacher Ratio Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Compare

Year	# Students	Full-time Teachers	Student/Teacher ratio	% Free/Discounted Lunch
2004	377	8.0	47.1	0
2005	626	15.0	41.7	0
2006	1002	24.0	41.8	0
2007	1449	36.0	40.3	0
2008	1699	77.0	22.1	n/a
2009	2736	108.0	25.3	n/a
2010	3652	137.5	26.5	48.2
2011	4424	175.5	25.2	48.1
2012	5550	203.5	27.2	50.7
2013	6667	268.1	24.8	52.8
2014	8037	317.1	25.3	52.7
2015	8768	332.0	26.4	52.6
2016	8877	341.0	26.0	n/a
2017	8974	331.0	27.1	n/a
2018	8592	341.0	25.1	n/a
2019	8761	346.9	25.2	52.8
2020	9294	371.5	25.0	n/a
2021	16419	525.0	31.2	48.8
2022	18087	880.5	20.5	51.4
2023	20355	1170.5	17.3	n/a
2024	23589	1431.5	16.4	59.1

Data source: National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Dept of Education.

About Student-Teacher Ratio

Student/teacher ratio is calculated by dividing the total number of students by the total number of full-time equivalent teachers. Please note that a smaller student/teacher ratio does not necessarily translate to smaller class size. In some instances, schools hire teachers part time, and some teachers are hired for specialized instruction with very small class sizes. These and other factors contribute to the student/teacher ratio. Note: For private schools, Student/teacher ratio may not include Pre-Kindergarten.

Finances

Per Pupil Expenditures for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Year	Expenditures from Federal Funds	Expenditures from State and Local Funds	Total Expenditures Per Pupil (All Funds)
2019	$00 (NaN)	$00 (NaN)	$00
2020	$262 (2.4%)	$10,603 (97.6%)	$10,865
2021	$1,420 (14.3%)	$8,498 (85.7%)	$9,918
2022	$2,427 (20.5%)	$9,398 (79.5%)	$11,825

Data source: Pennsylvania Department of Education

Pre and Post Pandemic Data

Impact of COVID-19 on Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

The coronavirus has had a profound impact on education in America. Learning shifted online overnight, attendance numbers dwindled, and enrollment decreased. SchoolDigger.com is making it easier for you to better assess how COVID-19 has impacted your school. Through the collection of pre-pandemic (2019) and current data, SchoolDigger.com is sharing test scores, enrollment numbers and school demographics from schools across the country – and we make it easy to see how impacted schools compare locally and statewide.

Rankings

Rank Pre-pandemic (2018-2019)	Rank Post pandemic (2022-2023)	Change (%)
Ranks 1302^nd of 1544 Elementary schools	Ranks 1078^th of 1534 Elementary schools	14.1%
Ranks 679^th of 891 Middle schools	Ranks 537^th of 893 Middle schools	16.1%
Ranks 596^th of 693 High schools	Ranks 527^th of 674 High schools	7.8%

Test Scores

	% proficient Pre-pandemic (2018-2019)	% proficient Post pandemic (2022-2023)	Change (%)
3rd Grade Math (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	23	37.3	14.3%
3rd Grade Math (Pennsylvania)	56	51.7	4.3%
3rd Grade English Language Arts (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	42	49.3	7.3%
3rd Grade English Language Arts (Pennsylvania)	61.9	54	7.9%
4th Grade Math (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	15.2	29.6	14.4%
4th Grade Math (Pennsylvania)	46.2	46.5	0.3%
4th Grade Science (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	63.4	70.7	7.3%
4th Grade Science (Pennsylvania)	77.8	74.1	3.7%
4th Grade English Language Arts (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	44.3	45.4	1.1%
4th Grade English Language Arts (Pennsylvania)	63.6	51.8	11.8%
5th Grade Math (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	11.5	18.4	6.9%
5th Grade Math (Pennsylvania)	43	42.7	0.3%
5th Grade English Language Arts (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	35.5	46.4	10.9%
5th Grade English Language Arts (Pennsylvania)	58.5	53.6	4.9%
6th Grade Math (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	7.3	16.3	9%
6th Grade Math (Pennsylvania)	39	36.4	2.6%
6th Grade English Language Arts (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	42.2	53.1	10.9%
6th Grade English Language Arts (Pennsylvania)	63	55.6	7.4%
7th Grade Math (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	9.8	18.4	8.6%
7th Grade Math (Pennsylvania)	38.2	33.2	5%
7th Grade English Language Arts (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	41.9	46.8	4.9%
7th Grade English Language Arts (Pennsylvania)	60.5	54.5	6%
8th Grade Math (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	9.8	11.9	2.1%
8th Grade Math (Pennsylvania)	32.2	26	6.2%
8th Grade Science (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	44.8	59.6	14.8%
8th Grade Science (Pennsylvania)	58.2	57	1.2%
8th Grade English Language Arts (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	39	49.7	10.7%
8th Grade English Language Arts (Pennsylvania)	57.9	52.8	5.1%
11th Grade Algebra I (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	28.6	16.4	12.2%
11th Grade Algebra I (Pennsylvania)	63.3	34.1	29.2%
11th Grade Biology (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	28.1	33.8	5.7%
11th Grade Biology (Pennsylvania)	63.2	50.7	12.5%
11th Grade Literature (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	48	50.4	2.4%
11th Grade Literature (Pennsylvania)	71.5	65.3	6.2%
All Grades Math (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	11.5	20.8	9.3%
All Grades Math (Pennsylvania)	42.4	39.3	3.1%
All Grades Science (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	50.5	63.8	13.3%
All Grades Science (Pennsylvania)	68	65.6	2.4%
All Grades English Language Arts (Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School)	40.7	48.6	7.9%
All Grades English Language Arts (Pennsylvania)	60.9	53.8	7.1%

Student Body

	Number of students Pre-pandemic (2018-2019)	Number of students Post pandemic (2022-2023)	Change (%)
Total Students	8761	20355	132.3%
African American	1465	3385	131.1%
American Indian	0	69
Asian	61	199	226.2%
Hispanic	1362	3532	159.3%
Pacific Islander	17	49	188.2%
White	5236	11678	123%
Two or More Races	620	1443	132.7%

Schools Near Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Choose columns to see: Summary School Students/Teachers Ranking Test Scores Finance All

School													Students/Teachers											Ranking ()				Ranking ()				Keystone Exams Algebra I (2024)	Keystone Exams Biology (2024)	Keystone Exams Literature (2024)	PSSA Math (2024)							PSSA Science (2024)			PSSA English Language Arts (2024)							Per Pupil Expenditures (2022)
Name	Type	Grades	Address	City	Zip	County	District	Is Charter	Is Magnet	Is Virtual	Is Title I	Phone	Enrollment	Full-time Teachers	Student/ Teacher Ratio	Free/Discounted Lunch Recipients	White	Black	Hispanic	Asian	American Indian	Pacific Islander	Two or More Races	Average Standard Score ()	Statewide Rank ()	State Percentile ()	SchoolDigger Rating ()	Average Standard Score ()	Statewide Rank ()	State Percentile ()	Rank Change from Previous Year	Keystone Exams Algebra I 11th Grade	Keystone Exams Biology 11th Grade	Keystone Exams Literature 11th Grade	PSSA Math 3rd Grade	PSSA Math 4th Grade	PSSA Math 5th Grade	PSSA Math 6th Grade	PSSA Math 7th Grade	PSSA Math 8th Grade	PSSA Math All Grades	PSSA Science 4th Grade	PSSA Science 8th Grade	PSSA Science All Grades	PSSA English Language Arts 3rd Grade	PSSA English Language Arts 4th Grade	PSSA English Language Arts 5th Grade	PSSA English Language Arts 6th Grade	PSSA English Language Arts 7th Grade	PSSA English Language Arts 8th Grade	PSSA English Language Arts All Grades	Per Pupil Expenditures Total	Sub-total from Federal Funds	Sub-total from State/Local Funds
Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School	Public, Virtual, Charter, Alternative	K-12	One Innovation Way	Harrisburg	17110	Dauphin County	Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	(717) 710-3300	23,589	1,432	16.4	59.1%	13,492 (57.2%)	3,822 (16.2%)	4,191 (17.8%)	223 (0.9%)	89 (0.4%)	43 (0.2%)	1,729 (7.3%)								(n/a)	17.6	26.5	43.2	23.3	24.9	19.4	17.0	12.1	10.7	16.5	76.2	54.2	61.9	38.5	40.6	39.4	40.0	45.6	44.6	42.1	$11,825	$2,427	$9,398
Cougar Academy	Public, Magnet, Alternative	K-12	1601 State St	Harrisburg	17103	Dauphin County	Harrisburg City School District	No	Yes	No	Yes	(717) 703-4325	322	21	15.3	100.0%	3 (0.9%)	136 (42.2%)	171 (53.1%)	1 (0.3%)	0 (0.0%)	0 (0.0%)	11 (3.4%)								(n/a)	4.5	4.8	9.1	11.1	4.2	5.3	6.4	0.0	5.8	4.9	13.0	5.7	8.6	11.1	8.7	11.1	17.6	14.3	16.7	14.0	$13,911	$361	$13,550
Reach Cyber Charter School	Public, Virtual, Charter, Alternative	K-12	750 East Park Drive	Harrisburg	17111	Dauphin County	Reach Cyber Charter School	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	(717) 704-8437	6,146	513	11.9	40.9%	3,128 (50.9%)	1,458 (23.7%)	961 (15.6%)	58 (0.9%)	35 (0.6%)	5 (0.1%)	501 (8.2%)								(n/a)	9.1	17.8	41.5	14.8	9.3	6.8	6.1	7.4	4.3	7.6	46.6	39.7	42.0	23.5	11.4	13.5	23.2	23.0	22.6	20.3	$15,453	$1,823	$13,630

Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School:

Elementary School Test Score Ratings by Student Subgroup:

Middle School Test Score Ratings by Student Subgroup:

High School Test Score Ratings by Student Subgroup:

Average Parent Rating:

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Rank History for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for all elementary school students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for elementary school Multi-racial students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for elementary school Low Socio Economic Status students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for elementary school Female students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for elementary school Disabled students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for elementary school Male students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for elementary school African American students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for elementary school Hispanic students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for elementary school White students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for all middle school students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for middle school Multi-racial students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for middle school Low Socio Economic Status students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for middle school Female students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for middle school Disabled students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for middle school Male students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for middle school African American students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for middle school Hispanic students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for middle school White students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for all high school students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for high school Multi-racial students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for high school English Language Learner students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for high school Low Socio Economic Status students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for high school Female students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for high school Disabled students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for high school Male students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for high school Asian students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for high school African American students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for high school Hispanic students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rank History for high school White students at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Review counts

Enrollment information for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Students eligible for free or discounted lunch at Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Student/Teacher Ratio Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Per Pupil Expenditures for Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Impact of COVID-19 on Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School

Rankings

Test Scores

Student Body

Schools Near Commonwealth Charter Academy Charter School