Our History

Cambridge Classical Academy: The Beginning

While serving as interim head of school in Chicago, our founder (Ms. Pernicia C. Smith) received a call that was both alarming and disturbing.  She was informed of upcoming changes that would drastically impact the culture of the school and the lives of the students.  After conversing with her team, a decision was made.  It was at that moment on July 28, 2017, Cambridge Classical Academy (CCA) was born.  

With less than six weeks before the start of the 2017 - 2018 school year, Cambridge Classical Academy had 50 students enrolled but no location to call home.  After countless meetings and phone calls, the pressure of finding a space for our scholars was high.  Instead of questioning whether the best decision had been made, our founder and the team sought a higher power for guidance and grace.  

Unseen doors began to open and faith was restored.  Just two days before the first day of school, a location was secured and boxes were unpacked.  It took the entire village to make sure that we were ready to greet our scholars on the first day of school.  Parents spent hours cleaning and helping teachers transform an empty canvas into an environment that would be conducive for learning.

Cambridge Classical Academy opened its doors on September 5, 2017.  When you trust and believe in the promises of God, nothing is impossible.  We know that excellence is not an act; it is a habit.  These principles and values are what continue to guide the works of our great school today.