Where who they'll be is as important as what they'll be.
Tuition-Free Public Schools Built for Student Success
At-a-Glance
Why Families Choose NHA
+3.5
Months
Achieving Academic Excellence
A Stanford University study found that students at NHA partner schools gain an average of 3.5 additional months of learning each year compared to their traditional public school peers. That's more academic growth in the same school year with no additional school days.
85%
Building Strong Character
Eighty-five percent of parents say the Moral Focus™ program has had a positive impact on their child's character and personal growth.
100%
Preparing Students for What’s Next
100% of NHA high school graduates are accepted to a four-year college, reflecting the strong academic foundation students build starting in kindergarten.
30+
Years
Partnering with Families Since 1995
National Heritage Academies has spent three decades working alongside families to help students build the knowledge, skills, and character they need to succeed.
100+
Schools
Serving Communities Across 9 States
NHA partners with more than 100 public charter schools, supporting students, families, and communities across nine states.
65k+
Students
Growing Together
More than 65,000 students in grades Y5–12 attend NHA partner schools, giving our teams the opportunity to make a difference for students and families every day.
Our Core Principles
What Makes an NHA Education Different
National Heritage Academies schools are built on a set of core principles that shape every part of the student experience. From academics and character to family involvement and school culture, here is what families can expect.
Academic Excellence
We Reach Higher
At NHA schools, students are challenged and supported to reach their full potential. Through a research-backed curriculum and data-driven instruction, students build the knowledge and skills they need for long-term success. Four out of five NHA parents agree their child is receiving a high-quality education.
Character Development
We Build Character
Through our Moral Focus™ program, character development is part of every school day. Students learn and practice virtues such as respect, gratitude, perseverance, and integrity, applying them both in and out of the classroom. By pairing strong academics with character education, NHA helps students grow into confident, responsible individuals who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world around them.
Parent Partnership
We Work Together
We believe students thrive when families and schools work together. NHA schools build strong partnerships with parents through open communication, regular progress updates, and meaningful opportunities for involvement. Four out of five parents report satisfaction with communication from teachers and school leaders.
Student Responsibility
We Expect More
Students are held to high standards and learn to take ownership of their choices, actions, and academic growth. Through consistent guidance and support, they build independence, self-discipline, and confidence that prepare them for success in school and beyond.
Family & Student Support
We Support Success
School leaders, teachers, and staff work together to support each student's academic, social, and emotional growth. In a caring and encouraging environment, students receive the guidance and support they need to build confidence, overcome challenges, and thrive in school and beyond.
Structured Setting
We Create Focus
Clear structure, expectations, and routines create a safe, focused learning environment where students can do their best work. By understanding what's expected and staying engaged in their learning, students build the responsibility and confidence needed for success.
Alumni Spotlight
An NHA Success Story
Kevin Kurgat's journey began at NHA partner schools Excel Charter Academy and Grand River Preparatory High School before leading him to Harvard University and a career in cancer research. See how the foundation he built helped prepare him to make a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Top Questions From Families Like You
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Yes. Every National Heritage Academies school is a tuition-free public charter school funded by the state, just like traditional public schools. Families pay no tuition, and enrollment is open to all students.
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A charter school is a tuition-free public school that operates independently from the local school district. Charter schools meet all federal, state, and local education, health, and safety requirements and are held accountable by an authorizer to meet high academic and operational standards. This oversight, combined with the flexibility to design curriculum and programs, helps schools provide a high-quality education for every student.
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NHA operates 105 tuition-free public charter schools in nine states: Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, New York, North Carolina, Colorado, Georgia, Louisiana, and Wisconsin. Use our school finder to locate an NHA school near you.
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Most NHA schools serve kindergarten through eighth grade, with high schools in Michigan and K–12 campuses in Colorado, Michigan, and North Carolina. Many schools also offer Young 5s, 4K, or preschool programs. PrepNet Virtual Academy in Michigan and National Heritage Online Academy in North Carolina provide a fully online K–12 experience with Live Online and Self-Paced learning models.
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Find the NHA school that's right for your family, then submit your child's application directly through the school's website. The online application takes just a few minutes to complete.
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During Open Enrollment, schools accept applications over a designated period. If a school receives more applications than available seats, a random lottery is held to determine placement. All applications submitted during Open Enrollment have an equal chance of being selected. Families are notified of the results, and students who are not selected are placed on a waiting list. If seats remain available after Open Enrollment, schools may continue accepting applications.
Take the Next Step
Explore NHA
Search for a school near you, or learn more about who we are and what we believe.
NHA School Finder
NHA serves more than 65,000 students through 100+ tuition-free public charter schools across nine states. Find the NHA school closest to you.
Who We Are
National Heritage Academies was founded on a simple belief: every child deserves a great education. Learn who we are, what drives our mission, and the people leading it forward.