Citizens High School History

The Citizens High School story began more than 40 years ago – with a desire to create more opportunities for students to achieve their educational goals. As lifestyles and technologies have evolved, so has CHS – creating increasingly innovative high school curriculum, teaching and learning resources, and more. 

Today, our leadership follows a vision for Citizens High School to become the benchmark distance learning provider for high-school level education. Built on pillars such as quality instruction, flexible course selection, and unique educational opportunities, we continue to pave the way for students and families who want more than what bricks-and-mortar schools offer, without sacrificing anything in terms of level of learning or subject mastery.

Evolution of the Citizens High School Logo

History of Citizens High School Milestones and Accomplishments

1981
1981

CHS was founded in Atlanta, GA as a private distance education school.

1984
1984

Received Accreditation through the National Home Study Council, now DEAC Distance Education Accrediting Council.

1991
1991

CHS was acquired by National Training Inc and moved to Orange Park, FL

1995
1995

Course and program offerings were modified and expanded to meet student's needs.

2000
2000

Additional course extensions and programs added in response to student interests and requests.

2001
2001

CHS enrollments grow to over 2,000 students per year

2017
2017

Dr. James Etter, Founder and former President & CEO of American Military University and APUS, acquires Citizens with a vision of creating high-quality online education at an affordable price point to everyone with the desire to learn. CHS Online planning and implementation begins.

2018
2018

CHS corporate headquarters relocated to modern facilities in Fleming Island, FL CHS launches it's innovative, fully online High School Diploma program

2020
2020

Received re-accreditation with Middle States and DEAC.

2021
2021

In Winter/Spring of 2021, launched new program for servicing Job Corps students