“I’m the principal of Centennial Academy where we believe in life-long learning. That’s why it’s most important to teach children how to learn rather than just what to learn. It is also why learning opportunities for our teachers and parents are just as important as for our children. We’re located in the heart of Atlanta, just north of the downtown core and across the street from world-class institutions, our community unites around common educational goals. The Mission of Centennial Academy is to prepare young people in a supportive Crib-8th grade learning environment to lead, compete and succeed in a dynamic, technologically-enabled and globally-connected world.”

“We’ll do this by 1) Developing a replicable model for STEAM education, using blended and project-based learning as core strategies.

2)Helping students achieve the benchmarks of each educational bundle (Crib-K, K-2, 3-5 and 6-8) to excel in any post 8th grade educational environment and be prepared to be competitive and successful in any work environment.

3) Utilizing an effective “learning to read” approach in the Crib – K and K – 2 years to set the stage for students for the rest of life’s journey, where “reading to learn” is essential.

4) Building a state-of-the-art information technology structure that is robustly rich in content and user-friendly for each educational bundle.

5) Capitalizing on the use of strategic community partnerships to support its academic priorities.

A strong network of community partnerships and engaged parents have been key to successfully creating the first conversion charter school in Atlanta. The Georgia Institute of Technology is the premier education partner in this effort and provides support in STEM curriculum development, professional development, and student enrichment activities. Other partnerships include the Georgia Aquarium, Georgia State University, The Coca Cola Company, and the Atlanta Housing Authority. Strong crib to kindergarten partnerships in the immediate area, highlighted by a campus-based program administered by the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, provide critical early learning and skill development that ensure students entering Centennial are ready for a rigorous academic environment. The YMCA also provides necessary physical education and aftercare services integrated with the academic vision of the school. A Parent Outreach Program provides vital support to parents as partners in the education of their children.”

Dijon

July 23, 2014