Two summers ago, I opened the newspaper and saw some shocking data. State academic testing results had just been released, and more than half of the students in our city were below grade level in reading and math. In some parts of our city, that number was closer to eighty to ninety percent. Some of these schools were traditional public schools, and some were charter schools. Regardless of the type of school, the reality was the same: too many children were falling behind. That moment helped solidify why we are opening East Hills Academy, which is why I still carry that newspaper article with me today.
The truth is that education is complicated, and society is complicated. When people ask why scores are the way they are, there is no simple answer. Countless factors play a role. I can point to many things that are likely contributing to the problem, but in the end, I have to be honest and acknowledge that I do not fully know everything that is not working. What I do know, however, is what does work.
I have seen firsthand that students thrive when schools have an intentional curriculum, a laser focus on student data, systems that ensure children do not slip through the cracks, more instructional time, character programs, and strong relationships between staff, students, and families. These are not theoretical. I have seen them transform schools as a school leader, and I have experienced their impact personally as a once-at-risk student myself. Across the country, some of the highest-performing schools successfully use these same strategies. At East Hills Academy, we are committed to bringing those opportunities through our rigorous academic model, family-friendly calendar and schedule, and transportation options.
I often think about the people who, thirty years ago, came together to create a tuition-free public charter school of excellence that changed the trajectory of my own life. Parents and community leaders made sacrifices so students like me could have opportunities we otherwise may never have had. Their investment created ripple effects that are still being felt decades later. East Hills Academy is our opportunity to do the same for the next generation of children in Colorado Springs.