Our Story

Our story began when we opened as St. Louis Charter School, welcoming approximately 500 K–6 students as one of the first charter schools in St. Louis. From the beginning, we believed students thrive when they are truly known, supported, and challenged.

As we grew, so did our commitment to educating the whole child through strong academics, social-emotional learning, and character education. Respect, Responsibility, and Caring became the foundation of our school culture and continue to guide our community today.

Our recognition as the first charter school in St. Louis named both a State and National School of Character reflected our dedication to building a caring, student-centered environment where academic and social-emotional growth go hand in hand.

As our school community expanded, we transitioned from St. Louis Charter School to Premier Charter School — a name that better reflected the culture of excellence, innovation, and whole-child education that defines PCS today. We also planted permanent roots in South City by purchasing our Fyler Avenue property that became our permanent campus that remains home to our campus today.

Today, PCS serves more than 1,000 Pre-K through 8th grade students from across St. Louis City. Nestled on more than 20 acres, our campus gives students space to collaborate, create, and grow through project-based learning, outdoor education, athletics, arts, Pathways, and hands-on experiences beyond the classroom.

More than 25 years later, our mission remains the same: creating a place where students feel connected, empowered, and prepared to thrive wherever life takes them next.

2000 — Opened as St. Louis Charter School with approximately 500 K–6 students
2011 — Became the first charter school in St. Louis recognized as both a State and National School of Character
2013 — Transitioned from St. Louis Charter School to Premier Charter School
2016 — Purchased and expanded our permanent South City campus on Fyler Avenue
2026 — Serving more than 1,000 Pre-K–8 students from across St. Louis City while celebrating 25+ years of impact