Cherokee Creek Boys School

At Cherokee Creek Boys School, our mission is to "challenge boys and their families to discover what is real and true about themselves and the world around them." Cherokee Creek Boys School is a warm, positive, nurturing learning community that offers the benefits of small enrollment, hands-on academics, therapy, recreation and a talented staff dedicated to helping boys find their way back to a life of balance and harmony.
Cherokee Creek Boys School (CCBS) is an academically accredited, state-licensed therapeutic boarding school for middle-school boys, ages 10-15, in Upstate, SC. Ourstudents have a "softer profile" with challenges including, but not limited to: ADD/ADHD;depression; anxiety; oppositional behavior; learning style differences; high functioning Autism, academic frustration or failure; issues related to divorce, adoption,abandonment, trauma and grief and loss.
Our small enrollment (42 students), home-likelodge in the woods and warm, nurturing staff make CCBS the, "small school with a big heart," ... where boys can be boys.

Quick Stats (2024)

  • School Type: Alternative School
  • Grades: 5-10
  • Yearly Tuition: $165,000
  • Average class size: 10 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

Top Rankings

Cherokee Creek Boys School ranks among the top 20% of private schools in South Carolina for:

Category
Attribute
Sports offered

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades 5-10
ADD/ADHD Support
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Learning Programs Supported
Dyslexia / Dysgraphia / Math, Writing & Executive Functioning Disorders
Year Founded
2003
Summer School Offered
Yes

Student Body

Total Students
n/a
Student Body Type
% Students of Color
5%
State avg.: 18%

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
5 teachers
% Faculty w/Advanced Degree
50%
Average Class Size
10 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Yearly Tuition Cost
Tuition Notes
Tuition is $13,500 per month. This includes therapeutic services. Parents receive a coded bill that can be submitted to insurance for any applicable reimbursement. Tuition includes Family Seminars and 2 months of transition services after graduation.
Admissions Director
Christy Swafford
Admissions Associate
Shaler Cooper

Sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
6 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Lego Club

Arts and Music Programs:
and guitar lessons, Art Club, drums, Piano

Recreational Athletic Programs:
Rec League Sports Teams

School Notes

  • Cherokee Creek Boys School (CCBS) is an AdvacEd accredited, state-licensed therapeutic boarding school for boys, ages 10-15,grade 5-10 in Upstate, SC. Our students have a "softer profile" with challenges including, but not limited to: ADD/ADHD; depression; anxiety; oppositional behavior; learning style differences; high functioning Asperger`s; academic frustration or failure; issues related to divorce, adoption, abandonment, trauma and grief and loss. Our small enrollment (42 students), home-like lodge in the woods and warm, nurturing staff make CCBS the, "small school with a big heart," where boys can be boys.
  • Our innovative Medicine Wheel curriculum leads students on a journey of self-discovery and character development as they explore the values of Courage, Truth, Love and Wisdom. Througha combination of integrated Personal Enrichment opportunities, Academics, Therapy and Health and Recreation activities students gain insight, make friends, heal relationships, face challenges and regain hope and confidence.
  • PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:
  • ACADEMICS:Cognia Accredited, Hands-On Integrated Academics, Morning PE Class, small classes,
  • ACTIVITIES:Community league sports (soccer, flag football, basketball, cross-country) Wekend outdoor adventure treks, disc golf course, fishing, hiking, yoga, music, art, swimming
  • THERAPY:Indivdual, family, group, and equine therapies are included.
  • FAMILY PROGRAMMING:Family Adventure TREKS, Mother`s Retreats, Father`s Retreats, Parent/Child TREKS
  • PASSAGES:A transition curriculum to prepare for graduation and two months of transition services after graduation;
  • SAFETY & QUALITY: Licensed by the State of South Carolina, Accredited by The Joint Commission, Members of the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs; Gurian Model School; SEVIS Approved (to accept International Students)
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Cherokee Creek Boys School cost?
Cherokee Creek Boys School's tuition is approximately $165,000 for private students.
What sports does Cherokee Creek Boys School offer?
Cherokee Creek Boys School offers 16 interscholastic sports: Archery, Basketball, Bowling, Climbing, Cross Country, Equestrian, Flag Football, Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Mountaineering, Rock Climbing, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis and Volleyball. Cherokee Creek Boys School is ranked as one of the top 20% of private schools in South Carolina for most sports offered.
When is the application deadline for Cherokee Creek Boys School?
The application deadline for Cherokee Creek Boys School is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

School Reviews

  5.00 out of 5  (17 reviews)
5  
Sending our child to CCBS was the scariest decision we have ever had to make, but it was the absolute best decision we ever made. Not only was it incredible for our son, but our entire family also benefitted from the process. It truly was a parallel process. I can't say enough wonderful things about our CCBS journey and the people who work there every day. We feel so fortunate to have found this small school with a big heart!
- Posted by
5  
As a teacher, I am impressed with the academics offered at Cherokee Creek Boys School alongside the treatment. A wonderful balance of healing and learning.
- Posted by
5  
This school was truly a blessing for our family and we are all so grateful for the life-changing experience. Sending our son away to school was an excruciating decision for us. It turned out to be the best decision we ever could have made, for him, for us and for our family. The program focuses on so many important issues that are critical for the healthy and happy development of these boys and their futures. They learn about themselves, their values, their strengths and their weaknesses, in a nurturing, positive and structured environment, while working through a program that rewards hard work and difficult self-reflection. I wish every child was able to experience a program like this, designed to build necessary skills that enable these boys to communicate, be present and flexible and they face challenges and grow into the best person they can be. I will always cherish this amazing experience and hold a special place in my heart for this incredible place and the warm, ultra-competent and caring staff that make it so successful.
- Posted by
5  
As a therapist of many years at CCBS, I am truly honored to know that we make a difference in so many families' lives. Families come to CCBS thinking they want their sons 'fixed', yet they find that the entire family heals...siblings, parents, conflicted relationships, and their sons too. They, and we, may not find perfection, but we all watch transformation and progress, growth, confidence in healthy socialization, and overall healing. CCBS is a fun place to work, focused on finding balance in the lives of middle school boys, and we too, as staff enjoy the fun as well. It is clean, as much as a 'camp-like' setting for boys can be, and safe, and full of adventure!
- Posted by
5  
As a former therapist at Cherokee Creek, I can not even begin to describe how special this place is to me. Cherokee Creek shaped and molded me, and fundamentally made me a better person. At least once a day, I have to remind myself to "be open to outcome" or to "show up and be present". This is a wonderful school with fantastic and committed staff.
- Posted by
5  
I am a very satisfied staff member from Cherokee Creek. Our mission, "to challenge boys and their families to discover what is true about themselves and the world around them," helps to maintain focus and to motivate our efforts. The staff operates with the concept of striving for the best interest of the student. I enjoy seeing students come to us underperforming academically and resisting school and by the time they leave they are achieving their best and have developed a love of learning.
- Posted by
5  
Could not be more enthusiastic in recommending this school! They are SO loving and supportive. And - it's a place where kids have fun! My son has learned skills that will last a lifetime. I wish I could have learned this at his age. What a wonderful opportunity for middle schoolers to re-launch themselves with whole heads and hearts! We tried many different schools until we found CCBS, and we are blessed to have found it. Wonderful place.
- Posted by
5  
I have had the privilege to be part of the Cherokee Creek family for over 8 years. One of my favorite things about the school is the strong desire to help the student and family heal and grow together. We believe in the healing power of nature and love watching students discover the fun they can have outdoors. Whether on the river, hiking to a waterfall, or being in the classroom, both students and staff work together to learn.
- Posted by
5  
The work that we do is so important and it's amazing to see our students and their families learn, grow, and thrive as they continue their journey. Working at CCBS is not like any other job that I have had. The relationships with co-workers extend beyond doing the job, and the community is so valuable.
- Posted by
5  
I am not on the staff at CCBS (there was not a category for me :-). But I am proud to say that I have supported the school as a consultant and trainer throughout its 20 years! Each year I conduct a session with the staff and the families about how to improve relationships, communication, and teamwork between people. CCBS offers great ongoing support and learning to the families and keeps helping their staff learn, grow and thrive as a team. Their team is extraordinary - each staff member is truly committed to helping boys and their families by challenging them "to discover what is real and true about themselves and the world around them." CCBS gives practical tools, information, support, and ongoing learning to make a difference in the lives of these boys and their families.
- Posted by
5  
Cherokee Creek was a transformational experience for my son and our family. My son was loved, supported, understood, and received top-notch therapeutic care from extremely skilled and nurturing professionals, who aligned everything they did with the thoughtful values and mission of the school. My son worked hard, challenged himself, grew tremendously, built lasting relationships, and had so much fun. He misses the special CCBS community greatly now that he has graduated and recognizes CCBS as a place where he truly thrives. Our whole family often draws upon the lessons learned and skills built through this experience. I could not be more grateful for this school and the caring, purposeful support it provided for my family.
- Posted by
5  
CCBS is a warm, caring place where one immediately senses the love and support for the boys and their families. The location is gorgeous and part of the healing and growth process. Each time we`d arrive for visits I could feel the healing embrace of the natural surroundings. The staff is amazing - dedicated and knowledgeable. The outdoor activities - kayaking, climbing, hiking, canoeing, camping, fishing - are just what so many kids need these days to reconnect to their true selves. CCBS was a blessing to our family.
- Posted by
5  
I have had two family members attend CCBS and I'm certain it saved their lives. The school truly lives its mission statement and helps transform both the students and their families. Their quarterly family seminars taught me and my family so much. There is great intentionality behind everything the school does and the way that the staff interacts with the students, other staff, and the families. CCBS gives the boys and their families tools that will last a lifetime. I was always impressed when we saw the alumni panel of boys to hear how they were able to convey their emotions. Then to see my nephews on it after they graduated felt like it came full circle. CCBS cares for each child individually and works with him at his pace. I am forever grateful to CCBS!
- Posted by
5  
I have worked at Cherokee Creek for over 10 years. There are so many things I found valuable about working at this small school with a big heart. It is a safe place for students and their families to discover what is real and true about themselves and the world around them. The staff cares about the students and meets them where they are both emotionally and academically. Lastly, it is a place where boys can be their authentic selves and make healthy friendships that last a lifetime.
- Posted by
5  
My family member attended Cherokee Creek and had a wonderful and healing experience. He struggled with depression and ADHD throughout his childhood. This impacted his self-confidence, his friendships, and our whole family system. He made wonderful friends there, learned about himself, and gained confidence. The medicine wheel is something he still uses today as an adult (who is happy and healthy!) He has fond memories of his time there and stays in touch with some of the staff and friends he met while enrolled. We are grateful for Cherokee Creek and its team!
- Posted by
5  
My son is a graduate of Cherokee Creek Boys School. This school not only works with the student but also with the parents or caregivers. I cannot say enough about the staff and program provided by this school. They are very supportive to both the student and family. Thank you Cherokees Creek Boys school, you hold a special place in my heart. Smiling mom in Hilton Head.
- Posted by
5  
Cherokee Creek is truly the small school with the big heart - it is an amazing place. It saved our son and our family, giving us a new future. I will be forever grateful for the incredible support, guidance and care that every single staff member gave our whole family. I would highly recommend Cherokee Creek.
- Posted by

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Quick Stats (2024)

  • School Type: Alternative School
  • Grades: 5-10
  • Yearly Tuition: $165,000
  • Average class size: 10 students
  • Application Deadline: None / Rolling
  • Source: Verified school update

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in South Carolina is $8,287 for elementary schools and $8,271 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in South Carolina is 90% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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