School Overview
In 2006, Odyssey Charter School opened its doors as Delaware’s first mathematics content focused, 2nd language (Greek) elementary education charter school.
Odyssey has strong academics, insight into the classical learning ideals of Hellenism, a small-school environment, and a fresh approach to learning.
Odyssey Charter School was rated a Superior School by Delaware’s Department of Education in 2008, 2009, and 2010.
General Information
Absences
Parents may report absences by calling the main office at 302-516-8000. Students must have a note upon return to school to excuse absences. Any student who has been out 3 days or more must have a note from the physician upon their return to school.
Early Dismissal
A student who is ill or injured will be assessed by the school nurse. If it is determined by the nurse that the student cannot or should not remain in school for the remainder of the day, the nurse will contact the parent/guardian to arrange for early pick up of the student. Please make sure all contact information is up-to-date.
In order to protect the safety and welfare of all our students, parents and guardians are reminded of the following:
- Please do not text message or email teachers about dismissal changes.
- All dismissal changes must be in writing and come to school with the student no later than the morning of the change. (No emails, faxes, or phone calls.)
- Only emergency dismissal changes are allowed until 2:00 by calling the office.
- There are no early dismissals after 2:45 from LS and IS. No early dismissals after 2:30 from US/HS.
- A valid photo ID must be shown when picking up students up from the office and in carline.
- A valid photo ID will be held when visiting the building. The ID will be returned when the visitor badge is returned to office.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Changes in Dismissal
For student safety reasons, no changes to end of day dismissal will be accepted via phone, fax, or email. All changes must be sent in writing via written letter brought to school with the child no later than the morning of the change. Students will only be released to authorized adults as indicated in writing by parent/guardian. Download the Student Information Sheet here to authorize adults for pick-up.
Emergency Closings/Delayed Openings
If a decision is made to close school or dismiss early due to the weather or other unforeseen circumstance, school administration will notify parents through the Blackboard Connect notification system. In addition, information regarding school closures and early dismissals can be obtained through local radio stations and the official state website for school closures, SchoolClosings.Delaware.Gov.
Visiting Odyssey
All Parents and other visitors MUST report to the office to receive a visitor’s identification badge before proceeding to any other area of the school. All visitors will be required to submit a Photo ID or license prior to receiving a badge, and must sign in and out. Parents will not be allowed to go to their child’s classroom while school is in session without an arranged meeting with the teacher.
Door Security & Announcing Yourself
During the school day entry to the Odyssey can only be attained by ringing the doorbell. You will be asked to announce your reason for requesting entry. In rare circumstances, for the safety of our students it may be necessary to temporarily deny entry. In these cases we will work to resolve the issue as quickly as possible and we appreciate your understanding.
Forgotten Items/Messages
Every day many items are dropped off at school for delivery to students. These items should be labeled with the student’s name and grade. Items will be kept in the main office, and teachers will be notified to send students. While office staff works to ensure that students receive the items that were dropped off, OCS staff cannot guarantee students will receive their items on the same day they are dropped off, nor is OCS staff responsible for the items. Also please note that office staff is instructed to not interrupt class for forgotten items or to deliver messages.
To change your child’s address, please submit new proof of residence documents as indicated here.
Code of Conduct
The successful operation of a school requires the cooperation of many people.
By enrolling at Odyssey Charter School we expect that our students and their families will abide by our philosophy and policies. The professional staff and Board have established rules and guidelines for maintaining high standards for student conduct which in turn leads to a safe, orderly and inviting school in which to teach and learn.
The Odyssey Charter School will abide by all state and federal regulations related to code of conduct issues. Regulations also pertain to special education students. Due process will always be followed in the event that the student’s infraction is related to the disability.
The school will also establish behavioral guidelines to maintain an environment that is conducive to education without stifling expression and appropriate social interaction.
Upon entering Odyssey Charter School, the student is responsible for his or her actions both in and out of school. Any serious violations of school policy and/or any illegal or immoral behavior could result in serious disciplinary action.
Student Code of Conduct & Parent Information
Title I Family Engagement Policy and Plan
Title I School-Family-Student Compact
Bullying and Cyberbullying Prevention Policy
Odyssey Extended Leave Policy
Family Concerns Resolution Process
FCF Forms
Dress Code and Uniform Policy
Our uniform policy has been updated for SY 2024-2025. Click on this link to view/print.
School Hours
Arrival/ Dismissal Times 23-24 School Year
HS/MS (Grades 6-12) Arrival and Dismissal
Arrival: 7:15 – 7:25 Dismissal: 2:20 – 2:30
IS/LS (Grades K-5) Arrival and Dismissal
- Intermediate School
Arrival: 8:20 – 8:35 Dismissal 3:30 – 3:40 - Lower School
Arrival: 8:30 – 8:45 Dismissal 3:40 – 3:55
Our Executive Director
Dear Odyssey Charter School Family,
I consider it a true privilege to be entrusted with the honor and responsibility of leading Odyssey Charter into the next chapter of our growth and development, a phase we call Odyssey Reimagined. As our nation’s Filotimo School, Odyssey is driven by the spirit of empathy, generosity, kindness, collaboration, and dedication to uplifting our community through acts of Filotimo, coupled with the desire to create an excellent learning environment for all students. Odyssey’s award-winning Hellenic Education model utilizes the teaching of the Greek Language, from which 30% of the English Language is derived, a strong civics education, and classical thinking, integrated with AI technology for 21st-century learners to create the global change-makers of the world.
At our core, we are united by our mission to prepare lifelong learners who are culturally responsive global change makers who utilize critical thinking and problem-solving skills grounded in the classical teachings of Greek education and language. This approach trains students to use the Socratic Method and inquiry approach to learning while leveraging their unique skills and talents equitably and democratically to create a positive culture where all students can find success. Our growing dual immersion program, innovative hydroponics and aeroponics K-12 program, community food program producing and harvesting over 2,000 pounds of food annually, and high academic outcomes are just a few examples of how far we have already come.
Odyssey Charter School has transitioned from an emerging school to a nationally recognized K-12 network that serves 2,200 students. I believe it is important to set strategic goals to focus our actions on continued growth and development so that all kids have access to an outstanding, permission-free, and transformational education. Academic achievement, facilities improvements and expansion, and community partnerships will serve as the foundation for our comprehensive vision and strategic plan. Odyssey continues to expand its partnerships and affiliations and is excited to enhance our community impact through the grand opening of a new state-of-the-art sports multiplex in 2024, and an innovative learning center in 2025.
The future is brighter than ever for Odyssey Charter School!
With gratitude and excitement,
Elias Pappas
Read the full Impact Report | Filotimo Talking Points
Monthly Executive Director Communication
Executive Summary – September 2023
Executive Summary – August 2023
Executive Summary – July 2023
Executive Summary – June 2023
Executive Summary – April 2023
Executive Summary – March 2023
Executive Summary – February 2023
Executive Summary – January 2023
Executive Summary – December 2022
Executive Summary – November 2022
Executive Summary – October 2022
Executive Summary – September 2022
Executive Summary – August 2022
Executive Summary – July 2022
Executive Summary – June 2022
Executive Summary – April 2022
Executive Summary – March 2022
Executive Summary – February 2022
Executive Summary – January 2022
Executive Summary – December 2021
Executive Summary – November 2021
Executive Summary – October 2021
Executive Summary – September 2021
Executive Summary – August 2021
Executive Summary – July 2021
Executive Summary – June 2021
Executive Summary – May 2021
Executive Summary – April 2021
Executive Summary – March 2021
Adult Greek Classes
Modern Greek Language Program
Adult and Certification Preparation Courses Spring 2014
Classes Begin: Saturday, 11 of January 2014
Registration Form
The Odyssey Charter School is offering Adult classes of Modern Greek at the Upper School Campus. These courses give prospective adult students an opportunity to learn Modern Greek in a simple and easy way by teachers who are native Greek speakers. Our teachers use the natural approach for fast and comprehensive learning; they put emphasis on vocabulary acquisition, conversation, grammatical and structural forms, and provide cultural evidence to their students in order to understand native Greek speakers’ attitudes by using a variety of resources.
Our aim is to enable each student to speak, read and write the Greek language. In addition we would like to promote the Greek culture and history as an important factor of global civilization.
This is a Semester Modern Greek Program; the total hours of instruction are 34 (90 minutes per week) from 9: 30 a. m. – 11: 00 a. m. Classes are scheduled as follows:
May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
April 5, 12
March 8, 15, 22, 29
February 8, 15, 22
January 11, 18, 25
Elementary Modern Greek I
Instructor: TBA
This is a basic course for those without prior knowledge of Modern Greek. It will emphasize the development of reading, listening and speaking skills in everyday situations.
Elementary Modern Greek II
Instructor: TBA
This is a beginner’s course for those with an elementary knowledge of Modern Greek who wish to further develop reading, writing, listening and speaking skills in a variety of social situations, such as: shopping, invitations, asking for directions, describing family members, your home and neighborhood, etc. Grammar skills pertaining to these situations will also be emphasized.
Mandatory book
- Arvanitakis, K. & Arvanitakis E. (latest edition)
Communicate in Greek Level 1 and Workbooks 1a, 1b.
Athens: Deltos
Recommended books
- Stavropoulos, D. N. (2000 second revised edition)
Oxford English-Greek Learner’s Dictionary.
Oxford University Press - Holton, D. (2003)
Greek: An Essential Grammar of the Modern Language
Routledge - Papaheimona, D. & Papaheimona, M. (2002)
Ellinika Tora 1+1 (Greek Now) Book 1 and Workbook 1 (part a)
You can purchase all the books on the following websites: amazon.com or bibliagora-usa.com
Preparatory Course: Certificate of Attainment in Greek, Levels A1 and A2
Instructor: TBA
A1 elementary knowledge of Greek Language for children, ages 8-12
A1 elementary knowledge of Greek Language for teenagers and adults
A2 basic knowledge of Greek Language
This course is open to students who have completed three or more years of Modern Greek Language Study. According to the program of the Center for the Attainment in Greek, candidates of Levels A1 and A2 should understand conversations about everyday matters, public announcements, simple advertisements, notes, programs and instructions. Students will also practice simple, everyday interactions such as greetings, introducing themselves and others, apologizing, expressing positive or negative feelings, inviting, making suggestions, etc. The grammatical and syntactic topics related to these forms of communication will be emphasized. Students will practice writing skills for composing simple letters, notes, and descriptions. Graduate students from OCS are encouraged to participate in this class, to maintain, enhance and retain the knowledge of the Greek Language they have attained. The “Certificate of Attainment in Modern Greek Language, Level A” may satisfy the requirement of World Languages in many Colleges and Universities. This may allow up to 6 college credits, a significant amount of savings in tuition costs.
Mandatory book
Karakirgiou, M. & Panagiotidou, B.
Click on Greek. Learning Method of Greek as a Second/Foreign Language. Levels A1 and A2
Athens: Center for the Greek Language
Policies
Cancellation of Low Enrollment Classes
All courses are offered contingent upon minimum enrollment requirements. OCS reserves the right to cancel low-enrollment courses when necessary. You will receive a full refund if the course is cancelled after the second class meeting, or you may transfer to another course on a space-available basis. Refunds will not be made after the second class meeting, for any other reason, except cancellation of the course by OCS. In that event, refund will be in proportion to remaining class meetings.
For information, please contact Mr. George Righos or call 302-655-5760.
Educational Links
Embassy of Greece
Embassy of Cyprus
AHEPA
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Center for the Greek Language
Hellenic Cosmos Cultural Centre
BBC Learn Greek
Visit Greece
Filoglossia: Learning Greek as a foreign language
Lexilogos, Ancient Greek Dictionary
Modern Greek Dictionary
Owls Club Childcare
Welcome to the Owls Club – Odyssey Charter School’s Before and After Care Program.
Back for the 2025-2026 School Year – Bringing you everything you loved from last year, plus some exciting new experiences!
The Owls Club is designed to meet the needs of Odyssey families by offering convenient, high-quality care for students in Kindergarten through eighth grade. Whether you need before care, drop-in care, or sibling care, we’re here to support your family with flexible options and a caring team.
This year, we’re thrilled to introduce new enrichment opportunities, including:
- Urban Faming Experience – Hands-on learning about gardening, sustainability, and nature
- Music Exploration – Encouraging creativity through rhythm, instruments, and sound.
- Culinary Creations – Fun, age-appropriate cooking activities that build skills and confidence in the kitchen.
We continue our tradition of nurturing environments, familiar faces, and a supportive atmosphere where students feel safe, engaged and cared for.
Each day includes a thoughtful rotation of activities to support both academic and personal growth.
From structured homework time to enrichment like sports, art, computer technology, and more, students are grouped by age and guided by rotating staff who keep things exciting and developmentally appropriate.
We also provide a healthy snack and time to relax – ensuring a balanced, enriching and enjoyable extended day experience.
For any questions, please contact Rachquel Winn, our childcare Program Coordinator.
2025-2026 OCS Childcare Enrollment Form | Click Here
FAQs | Click Here
Student Wellness Program
Student Wellness Program
Odyssey Charter School is pleased to announce the launch of our Student Wellness Program. In collaboration with our Board, the administration developed this program to support students’ physical, social, and emotional well-being.
The Student Wellness Program serves a variety of purposes:
- Create an overall framework of services,
- Identify and support student needs,
- Locate and allocate resources (human, fiscal, community), and
- Communicate initiatives to students, families and greater community.
Please take a moment to review the attached document, which outlines the many services currently implemented in our school, as well as upcoming and future programming. To help support the Student Wellness Program’s launch, OCS is forming a School Culture Committee, comprised of Board members, administration, staff, parents, and students. This committee will work to develop a world-class environment where students will learn and thrive. Check the OCS calendar for future committee meeting dates.
Community Connection Circle
Building Community at OCS
Groups at OCS- Also called CCC for Community Connection Circle
Advisory group/class is a place where our 5-8th grade students and their advisor come together as a family to share, to play, and to develop and enhance the well-being of the students. It is characterized by a sense of freedom and fosters a sense of belonging.
Why Advisory Groups
- Strengthens connectedness at the middle level.
- Advocates suggest a direct link between a student’s emotional and social experience and academic achievement.
- Promotes self-esteem.
- Research shows that advisory students are less likely to drop out and have a low incidence of substance abuse.
Overall Goals of Advisory
- Support all students in being successful academically, socially and personally.
- Foster a sense of belonging (in the group and the school).
- Foster a sense of self in each student and a sense of community.
- Throughput the school year advisory class should be working toward the ability to function as a huge listening group: attentive, appreciative of other’s individual uniqueness, helpful, caring.
Minecraft Picture Board
The theme for 5th grade Advisory/CCC is ”Minecrafting our way through Middle School.” Students were to create their own Minecraft character using words, or items that describe who they are. It was a way for students to get to know each other during their first few sessions of Advisory/CCC.
Classroom Advisory/CCC Bullying Session
Here at the Upper School students are participating in a series of bullying activities and discussions. Shown here is a group of students in their Advisory/CCC group discussing whether certain situations are bullying or not. The main criteria being any action that: intentionally inflicts physical or verbal hurt, is repetitive and involves a power difference between the students involved.
Counseling Corner
School Counseling Program
Welcome to the Odyssey Charter School Counseling Program!
The Counseling Program at Odyssey Charter School is based on the American School Counselor Associations National Standards and facilitates student development in three content areas:
- Academic
- Post-Secondary Readiness
- Social/Emotional
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A school counseling program:
- Follows ASCA (American School Counselor Association) guidelines.
- Is part of the total school program.
- Complements learning in the classroom.
- Is child centered, preventative, and developmental.
- Encourages students’ social, emotional, and personal growth.
- Helps students maximize their potential.
OCS’s program also includes:
Individual Counseling: Individual counseling is provided to students who are referred by parents, teachers, administrators or the counselor. Parental permission is required and services are confidential.
Small Group Counseling: Small group counseling is offered throughout the school year on various topics such as divorce, grief, friendship skills, self-esteem and social skills. Student participation in group is confidential and requires parental permission.
Developmental Classroom Guidance Lessons: Lessons are designed to assist students with their personal/social, academic and career development.
Family Counseling: Meetings are available upon parent request.
Consultations: Assisting staff, families, and community to work with students.
Referrals: Assisting families in identifying and accessing community resources.
The benefits of a School Counseling Program include assisting the student with:
- Understanding self and developing a positive self-image.
- Showing respect for the feelings of others.
- Understanding the decision making process.
- Maintaining effective relationships with peers and adults.
- Developing effective study skills.
- Being prepared to make the transition to the intermediate, middle or high school.
- Becoming responsible for their own behavior.
- Receiving crisis intervention when necessary.
Qualifications include:
- A Master’s Degree
- A state certification as a school guidance counselor
Additionally, special preparation in the following areas:
- Child growth and development
- Individual counseling skills
- Group counseling and guidance skills
- Communication skills
- Elements of career development
- Educational and psychological measurement
- Theory and practice of counseling including exceptional and culturally diverse children
- Philosophy and principles of guidance
- Research and evaluation
Odyssey Charter School's Counseling Program.
Natalie Cush-Guichard
School Counselor, K-2
Kristina Bocanegra
School Counselor, K-2
Laura Angelo
School Counselor, 3-5
Dylan Barton
School Counselor, 3-5
Joe'l Kane
School Counselor, 6-8
Juliet Gunn-Yang
School Counselor, 6-8
Erica Shaw
School Counselor, 6-8
Kristina Horvath
School Counselor, 9-12, last names A-K
Breann Preston
School Counselor, 9-12, last names L-Z
Lori Jones, LCSW
Family Crisis Therapist, 6-12
Chantel Reeves
School Psychologist
Diana Kwacz
School Psychologist
Resources for Students
Suggested apps for social-emotional learning
SuperBetter
Middle School Confidential
The Social Express
Smiling Mind
Classcraft
Action for Happiness
Resources for Parents
Second Step – our social emotional learning curriculum resources for families
Delaware Department of Education website
Suggestions for talking with your children CDC.gov | NASPonline.org
Suggestions for talking with your teens
Suggestions for talking with your children broken down by developmental age group
Taking care of your mental health ASFP.org | CDC.gov
Taking Care of your Teens Mental Health
Coping with Financial Concerns
Suggestions for how to keep your children on a schedule and why it’s important
Free educational subscriptions for learning