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Student Spotlight: Laffeyette T.

For Laffeyette T., the road to earning his high school diploma was far from traditional. But his journey – filled with resilience, determination, and a newfound passion for helping others – is one worth celebrating. He graduated from Excel Academy North in February 2024 and today is a role model for youth in Philadelphia, showing what’s possible when you embrace change and persevere through challenges. Overcoming Early Challenges Growing up in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood, Laffeyette, the second youngest of seven siblings, faced significant hurdles in his education. For example, at one academy, he encountered [...]

Student Spotlight: Laffeyette T.2024-12-23T14:40:47-05:00

Excel Academies of Philadelphia Give Thanks

Students Give Thanks Thanksgiving and the holiday season offer a time to reflect, give back, and foster joy values embraced at Excel Academies in Philadelphia during recent celebrations and initiatives. From baking fun to meaningful community service, the schools offered opportunities for highlighting gratitude, generosity, and togetherness. Excel Academy South began the festivities with a pie-baking competition, showcasing staff’s culinary talents. Ten entries vied for the top spot, with Site Coordinator Jessica McCreary’s strawberries and cream pie earning first place. Steven Griffin, a team leader from Excel Academy Central, served as the judge. The event celebrated Thanksgiving traditions and strengthened [...]

Excel Academies of Philadelphia Give Thanks2024-12-23T15:38:21-05:00

Excel Academies Students Exercise Their Right to Vote

The Excel Academies of Chicago, part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Options Network, held a voter registration drive earlier this fall, that resulted in in 15 new registered voters. These students proudly cast their first time ballots in the 2024 presidential election, as well as many local races. “At Excel, we believe in empowering our students to make their voices heard,” said Ashanti Brooks, school clerk, Excel Academy of Roseland. “Voter registration and participation are key parts of civic duty and our team worked to ensure that eligible students understood the process and importance of being active [...]

Excel Academies Students Exercise Their Right to Vote2024-12-23T15:38:02-05:00

Excel Academy of Southwest Celebrates Honor Roll Students

Excel Academies of Southwest, part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Options Network, recently recognized 36 exceptional students for making Honor Roll during the first quarter. Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence serve as a remarkable example for their peers. “These students have not only excelled academically, but have also demonstrated perseverance, discipline and a strong work ethic,” said Principal Moise Ortiz. “Their outstanding accomplishments reflect their drive to succeed and their ability to rise to any challenge.” We congratulate each of these students on their well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing what else they accomplish during the [...]

Excel Academy of Southwest Celebrates Honor Roll Students2024-12-12T15:04:50-05:00

From 10 Schools to the Right Fit for Ryan

For Ryan and his parents, finding the right school was a long and challenging journey. Adopted from Russia nearly 13 years ago, Ryan struggled with behavioral and emotional challenges. Over time, he attended 10 different schools, but none could provide the structure and support he needed. A Shift at High Road School When Ryan enrolled at the High Road School of Massachusetts, things began to change. The school's combination of clear rules and compassionate support gave him a safe space to grow. His mom, Lisa, noted the positive impact on his self-esteem: “Ryan has a lot of [...]

From 10 Schools to the Right Fit for Ryan2024-12-12T13:14:03-05:00

A mother and son’s journey as a part of the Lexington Life family

Damien, a 12-year-old middle schooler, joined Lexington Life Academy - South Mountain after facing significant challenges in the public school system. For his mother, Tairy, finding a safe and supportive educational environment for Damien was crucial. Tairy’s Personal and Professional Growth Since enrolling at the school four years ago, Damien has flourished both academically and socially. His progress is deeply personal for Tairy, who now works as a teaching assistant at Lexington Life. “I wanted to learn more about special needs and how to help children in meaningful ways,” she said. “Taking a job with the school empowered me to support [...]

A mother and son’s journey as a part of the Lexington Life family2024-12-12T14:19:52-05:00

Honoring Family and Tradition: Día de los Muertos Ofrenda

At the Sierra School of Alhambra, Día de los Muertos (translates to “Day of the Dead”) has become a cherished annual tradition. This year’s celebration was marked by a colorful ofrenda, or altar, displayed prominently in the front office. Students and staff came together to honor loved ones who have passed, embracing the holiday’s rich cultural significance. What began as a small observance years ago, has grown into a vibrant school-wide commemoration. On the first day of presenting the ofrenda, staff played festive music to set a joyful atmosphere. With more than half of the students and staff at the [...]

Honoring Family and Tradition: Día de los Muertos Ofrenda2024-12-02T10:49:51-05:00

Sierra San Diego Welcomes Pro Soccer Player Kennedy Wesley

San Diego Wave FC, an American professional women's soccer team, defender Kennedy Wesley recently inspired students at Sierra San Diego during a visit filled with insights into the life of a pro athlete. Wesley shared her journey to professional soccer, her educational background, and her passion for working with the special education community. Students prepared thoughtful questions, eager to learn about her path to professional sports, her school experience, and life on the field. Wesley answered each one with honesty and enthusiasm, then spent time signing player cards for students and staff, leaving a lasting impression on everyone. Nicole Luster, [...]

Sierra San Diego Welcomes Pro Soccer Player Kennedy Wesley2024-11-25T16:11:26-05:00

Birthday Celebrations Bring Families Together

Birthdays are more than just a date on the calendar. For children especially, birthdays are a chance to feel seen, valued and celebrated. However, for some families, hosting a party can present challenges due to intensive special needs or behavioral issues. When leadership at the Sierra School at Allen heard from families about the difficulty around birthday celebrations, they took the party planning into their own hands. Now, it is a school tradition to recognize each student’s birthday with a memorable celebration. “Our goal is to see that our students experience their special day with the same joy and excitement [...]

Birthday Celebrations Bring Families Together2024-11-21T13:01:11-05:00

SESI Salutes Our Veterans in the Classroom

In honor of Veterans Day, SESI thanks the dedicated educators within our family for their service. From their roles within the United States Armed Forces to classrooms throughout the country, these teachers bring unique skills and experiences to the classroom, where they foster compassion, structure, and resilience. Their stories remind us of the meaningful contributions veterans make in the world of education and the invaluable role they play in shaping young lives. Laura Langley Teacher's aide, High Road of Wright City United States Navy “I love this job. The military taught me [...]

SESI Salutes Our Veterans in the Classroom2024-12-02T10:45:36-05:00

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