In July, staff members from three local middle schools joined educators from across West Virginia for a three-day experience at the Ron Clark Academy (RCA) in Atlanta. Made possible through a collaboration among the Hazel Ruby McQuain Foundation, WVU Medicine, the Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation, the Roy & Gwen Steeley Foundation, the experience provided educators with an opportunity to learn, collaborate, and bring new ideas back to their classrooms and schools.
Here is what the school administrators shared about their experience with RCA.
Jacqueline McCartney, Ed.D., Principal, Capon Bridge Middle School
“Our Ron Clark Academy experience reaffirmed that great schools succeed when strong relationships, high expectations, and student engagement work together. Staff feedback has been overwhelmingly positive because the ideas are realistic, energizing, and focused on creating a culture where every student feels connected and motivated to succeed.
Nicole Reed, Principal, Charles Town Middle School
“One of the most impactful takeaways was the house system, which promotes belonging, teamwork, and school pride. This year, CTMS will begin incorporating elements of a house system to help students and staff build stronger connections and foster a positive, supportive school community.”
Brandon Burkhart, Principal, Mountain Ridge Middle School.
“One of the main takeaways was the need to be consistent. As one presenter said, finding the balance of crazy and consistency is the key to success. We have to be crazy enough to try things and have fun but consistent enough to maintain order.”