More Than Just a School 
My name is Lori Olsen, my son Garrett is in 9th grade and my daughter Sadie is in 6th grade.  A couple of years ago, we sat where you are tonight, to learn more about this new charter school.   We were certainly impressed by what we heard, and my son was truly excited about the possibility of attending.  When I asked him why he felt this school would be a good fit for him he said “ It really seems like it’s more than just a school - it’s different, more like a community."

I can honestly say, that two years later, those words have certainly proven to be true.    I am always impressed by the way the school, both teachers and students, all work together to make this school so much more than just a place to come and learn math, english, and history.  It truly is a community-fostering mutual respect between the students and their families,  teachers and administration.   The bar is set high and the expectations are great.  The teachers ask for and expect a lot from their students - but not without providing support and guidance every step of the way.  

In the two years that we have been a part of the school, it has become clear that the passion the teachers possess is second to none.   I will never forget when my son came home last year - over the moon excited because his history class was going to be re-enacting the battle of Lexington and Concord.  The day came and he couldn’t wait to get to school and be a part of the re-enactment as the rest of the school was going to watch.  At that moment, it became clear to me that he would be learning so much more than facts from a book, and required to do so much more than memorize facts for a test.    Other events such as mock debates, reading and discussing classical literature in Hearkness roundtable discussions and participating in many engaging, hands-on science labs are just a few more examples of the “out of the box” methods the teachers utilize to make school a fun environment for the students to learn.  My kids are excited to go  to school, and when I pick them up at the end of the day they are enthusiastic about what they’ve done.  I love the fact that many teachers will give homework in the form of “projects” as my son tends to be more of a creative person and that allows him to be able to use his creativity while he learns. My son is a part of drama club, and my daughter has joined the spirit club. They have been able to participate in a spelling bee and the talent show, and get to explore and learn more about the arts through both band and chorus.  They’ve had opportunities to meet and hear state, local and national public figures speak.  I can honestly say that their education here is well rounded.  

As a parent, it is important to me that my children aspire to become the best they can be - the best possible versions of themselves. I truly believe that the values that The Founders Academy instills in them - to demonstrate exceptional character, to become leaders and productive citizens in their community, are wonderful building blocks for them as they grow and forge their own paths.  

I will close by saying that my family is honored to be a part of The Founders Academy and we look forward to many more years here as it continues to grow. 
Posted by mmooney On 02 December, 2016 at 4:01 PM  

 
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