Gold in Both Education Categories
Ignite Achievement Academy, a Charlotte-area private school serving students with learning differences, earned gold awards in both education categories. Winning Best Middle School and Best High School is a significant milestone for our school, and it reflects the support of families and residents across the Charlotte region.
These awards recognize our commitment to individualized instruction and an accommodating learning environment designed to help students build confidence, develop their strengths, and achieve their academic goals.
About the Charlotte's Best Awards
Presented annually by the Charlotte Observer, Charlotte's Best recognizes local businesses, organizations, and community favorites across dozens of categories. Winners are selected through public voting by Charlotte-area residents, which makes this recognition especially meaningful to us. It came directly from our community.
A Word From Our CEO
"We are incredibly honored to be recognized by the Charlotte community. This recognition is a reflection of the dedication of our teachers and staff, and the trust families place in us every day. It means a great deal to our entire team to know that families in our community value the work we do. Our teachers put so much time and care into understanding each student, finding what works for them and helping them make progress both academically and personally. To have that work recognized by the community is incredibly meaningful."
— Dr. Kelly Van Sande, CEO of Ignite Education Group
What Makes Ignite Achievement Academy Different
Ignite Achievement Academy is a K–12 private school designed for students who benefit from individualized instruction, small class sizes, and a learning environment tailored to their unique strengths and needs. Along with academic instruction, IAA provides support designed to help students develop confidence, independence, and the skills they need to reach their potential.
We serve students at two Charlotte-area campuses:
- South Campus: 6203 Carmel Road, Charlotte, NC 28226
- North Campus: 3835 W. WT Harris Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28269
Frequently Asked Questions
What awards did Ignite Achievement Academy win?
Ignite Achievement Academy won gold awards for Best Middle School and Best High School in the 2026 Charlotte's Best competition.
What is Charlotte's Best?
Charlotte's Best is an annual competition presented by the Charlotte Observer that recognizes local businesses, organizations, and community favorites across dozens of categories. Winners are selected by public voting from Charlotte-area residents.
Who does Ignite Achievement Academy serve?
IAA is a K–12 private school for students with learning differences who benefit from individualized instruction, small class sizes, and a learning environment tailored to their strengths and needs.
Where are Ignite Achievement Academy's campuses?
IAA has two Charlotte-area campuses: the South Campus at 6203 Carmel Road and the North Campus at 3835 W. WT Harris Blvd.
Thank You, Charlotte
To every family, student, teacher, staff member, and neighbor who voted for us: thank you. We are proud to be part of this community, and we are grateful for your trust and support.
Want to see what makes Ignite Achievement Academy Charlotte's Best? Schedule a tour of one of our campuses today.