The United States Department of Education has awarded The Academies of Oklahoma, which operates the Academy of Seminole (TAOS), a $7.2 million Charter School Program (CSP) CMO Expansion and Replication Grant. The grant will fuel the school’s ability to expand its programs and serve more students in rural Oklahoma.

The grant will support enhanced academic offerings, new career pathways, and opportunities for students to graduate with college credits or industry certifications.

“Rural Oklahoma students are winning. This grant will only accelerate our vision to expand to reach as many of the students that need us,” said Paul Cambell, Founder and Board Chair.

TAOS was recently named one of the nation’s Best High Schools by U.S. News & World Report—a recognition that highlights the school’s strong academic performance, college readiness programs, and commitment to student success.

Freshmen at the Academy recently kicked off their high school journey at Camp Quest, a weekend retreat held at St. Crispin’s Conference Center. Designed to help students begin ninth grade with purpose, confidence, and a strong sense of community, the retreat featured team-building challenges, campfire gatherings, and a keynote address from motivational speaker Rhett Laubach. Breakout sessions led by Academy staff encouraged students to identify their strengths and set personal goals for the future.

“Our mission is to prepare every student for college, career, and life,” said Wren Hawthorne, Superintendent. “With the support of this grant and recognition from U.S. News & World Report, we’re able to expand opportunities while maintaining the close-knit, student-focused culture that makes The Academy special.”

As a public charter school, The Academies of Oklahoma offers academics paired with future readiness. Many students graduate with an associate degree at no cost through the Early College High School program, while others earn industry certifications through partnerships with local colleges and technology centers.