About Cumberland Academy

Cumberland Academy of Georgia is a fully accredited private school in Atlanta, serving independent neurodiverse students in grades 3 through 12. Our students learn in a supportive academic environment designed to encourage strong academics, social development, executive functioning, and preparation for college and careers.

How Cumberland Academy Began 

Debbi and Matthew Scarborough originally founded Cumberland Academy of Georgia because of their son Steven Scarborough. Steven, who has Asperger’s Syndrome, attended public school through his 5th grade year. During this time, Debbi and Matthew felt Steven needed an environment where he could not only be challenged academically, but also taught the tools to overcome his social challenges.

“Our son, Steven, has amazing learning potential but requires a more one-on-one learning environment than most students because of his Asperger’s Syndrome. Cumberland Academy of Georgia is designed for students like Steven who love to learn and interact with other children but need more than a traditional school can accommodate.”

For families with children who need a more supportive school environment, Cumberland’s Who We Serve page explains the student profiles, learning differences, and admissions fit in more detail.  

After much work and research, Debbi and Matthew started Cumberland Academy of Georgia in 2007. Steven flourished at Cumberland and went on to graduate as valedictorian of his class. He is currently attending college and working in the automotive industry.

Read more about our story and how the school has grown since 2007. 

Who Cumberland Academy Serves

• Students ready to engage in strong academics, including college-preparatory coursework in high school, and to be challenged rather than managed
• Students with a documented diagnosis, including ASD Level 1, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, anxiety, or expressive and receptive language disorder, who do not require one-on-one support
• Families looking for an alternative after an IEP stopped delivering what their child needed

For families with children who need a more supportive school environment, Cumberland’s Who We Serve page explains the student profiles, learning differences, and admissions fit in more detail.

What Makes Cumberland Academy Different

Most schools ask families to choose: a rigorous academic program, or a supportive environment. Cumberland was founded so parents would not have to make that trade. Students take on rigorous coursework alongside social skills and executive functioning coaching, building skills they can carry into college, careers, and everyday life. Our teachers and counselors are what make that possible.

For students seeking a supported transition into higher education, College at Cumberland offers a one-to-two-year postsecondary program on its Atlanta campus, with access to fully accredited college coursework. 

The Story Behind Cumberland Academy of Georgia

Learn how Cumberland Academy of Georgia began with one family’s search for a better educational environment and grew into a school focused on helping neurodiverse students succeed academically, socially, and independently. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What grades does Cumberland Academy serve?

Cumberland serves grades 3 through 12 across three schools: Pioneers, our Lower School, for grades 3 through 5; Navigators, our Middle School, for grades 6 through 8; and Explorers, our Upper School, for grades 9 through 12. Each is structured around the academic and social needs of that age group.

How is Cumberland Academy different from a public school with an IEP?

Public schools typically use an IEP or 504 Plan to provide accommodations within a traditional school setting. At Cumberland, support for neurodiverse learners is built into the school environment through smaller classes, specialized instruction, social skills development, executive functioning support, and access to counseling staff. Families can discuss their child’s specific needs during the admissions process.

How much does it cost to attend Cumberland Academy?

Cumberland asks families to contact the school for current tuition information. The admissions team can also explain available financial assistance, including the Georgia Special Needs Scholarship and Georgia GOAL Scholarship. Visit Affording Cumberland to learn more.