We must be ALL in!

In the rapidly evolving educational landscape, the importance of literacy cannot be overstated. At EDceptional, we recognize that literacy improvement grounded in the science of reading is not just a necessity; it is a vital foundation for the success of our students and the overall strength of our charter school community. 

Research consistently shows that early intervention in literacy yields the most significant results. By prioritizing reading skills in pre-k to early elementary grades, we set the stage for lifelong learning and academic achievement. Children who develop strong literacy skills early on are more likely to excel in their studies, pursue higher education, and become engaged citizens. This emphasis on early literacy is not merely an educational strategy; it is an investment in our children's futures.

EDceptional cannot do it alone. Socio-economic stressors significantly influence children's literacy development through access to resources, early education opportunities, parental involvement, and the overall learning environment. Addressing these disparities is crucial for ensuring that all children have the opportunity to develop strong literacy skills, regardless of their background. 

The challenges faced by our community from socio-economic stressors highlight the need for a collaborative approach among pre-k to 12 advocates. By creating a supportive ecosystem that addresses these challenges, we can ensure that every child has access to the resources and support they need to thrive. This ecosystem approach fosters collaboration among educators, clinicians, families, and community organizations, enabling us to share best practices, data, resources, and interventions that can make a real difference in the lives of our students. 

Focusing on literacy improvement from the earliest grades is essential for building a strong educational foundation. By uniting as an ecosystem of advocates, we can effectively combat the stressors our communities face and work towards a brighter future for all students. Together, we can create an environment where literacy flourishes, and every child has the opportunity to succeed.

It's Back to School Time!

School hallways are buzzing with excitement as all area charter schools are back in session. EDceptional gathered with school leaders and staff at Eugenio Maria de Hostos Charter School (EMHCS) to welcome students on their first day and share plans for the upcoming year. 

During the live broadcast, Sebrone Johnson, CEO, discussed EDceptional’s focus on literacy education as a critical foundation for learning. Leaders from EMHCS shared its capital planning project, including a new building and Section V gymnasium. Watch the coverage here.

Charter Schools Team Up to Improve Elementary Literacy

Spurring the first of its kind collaboration between independent charter schools, EDceptional is sponsoring five local charter schools to improve elementary literacy proficiencies. Forty teachers gathered in late summer to kick off the beginning of LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) by Lexia training – a professional learning course for instructors of reading, spelling, and related language skills. 

“Literacy is the foundation upon which all learning is built,” says Sebrone Johnson, CEO. “Fostering collaboration in this area not only enhances academic achievement but it also cultivates a supportive community where both students and teachers can unlock their potential and thrive.”

Five schools, Exploration Elementary Charter School for Science & Technology, Innova Girls Academy Charter School, Renaissance Academy Charter School of the Arts, Rochester Academy Charter School, and Rochester Academy of Science Charter School are participating in the year-long intensive training. Leaders from these schools believe that empowering and training teachers to deeply understand the science of reading will lead to more students in Rochester reading on grade level. Good curriculum delivered by excellent teachers who believe in students will improve student learning.

Charter School News

Rochester Prep Welcomes Students

WHEC News 10 was there to kick off the school year with faculty, staff and students at Rochester Prep at the end of August. 

“One of the reasons why we start early is to give them that grace period from transitioning and building that relationship with them of how their summers were, giving families resources,”  said Oscia Miles, director of operations at St. Jacobs Campus Middle school. “We’re very knit in the community wanting to ensure that our families are taken care of. So after labor day, we really hit the ground running with academics and extracurricular activity.” 

See Channel 10 news coverage here.

Renaissance Academy Celebrates 10 Years, Unveils New City Mural

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Renaissance Academy Charter School of the Arts worked with a local artist to create a mural to remind people that any goal can be achieved. Named “The Dreamer," the mural took 10 days to complete. Watch the story on Channel 13.

A Bright Spot on Hickman Award Winners

Channel 13’s Bright Spot highlighted four students from three charter schools who received inaugural Hickman Fund awards to support their college plans. The fund was established to honor Bryan Hickman, executive vice president and co-founder EDceptional, and his unwavering dedication to improving K-12 academic outcomes for children in the City of Rochester.

Watch the story here.

Copyright © 2024 EDceptional. All rights reserved.