Success Academies CEO highlights top academic outcomes for New York students

In a recent meeting of the U.S. House Committee on Education & the Workforce, discussions centered on the transformative impact of charter schools, particularly highlighting the achievements of Success Academies. Founded 19 years ago, Success Academies has grown from a modest beginning of 65 kindergarteners and first graders to an impressive enrollment of 22,000 students across grades K-12, making it the fourth largest school district in New York State.

The founder and CEO of Success Academies emphasized the school's remarkable academic outcomes, noting that it ranks number one in mathematics statewide, even outperforming some of the most affluent districts. In reading, Success Academies holds the third position. These achievements are particularly significant as they illustrate not only a closing of the achievement gap but a reversal of it, showcasing the potential for success among students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

A striking statistic shared during the meeting revealed that 95% of Success Academies students have taken and passed at least one Advanced Placement (AP) exam, a stark contrast to the national average where only 22% of students engage with AP courses. This data underscores the effectiveness of the school's educational model, which the founder described as having a "secret sauce" that is simpler than often perceived.

Key components of this model include a structured and joyful learning environment, exceptional teacher training, and a focus on rigorous academics complemented by robust arts and athletics programs. The demographic makeup of Success Academies is also noteworthy, with 94% of students identifying as black and brown, and 80% living below the poverty line. This context highlights the school's commitment to maintaining high academic standards despite the challenges faced by its student population.

The discussions at the committee meeting reflect a growing recognition of the role charter schools can play in addressing educational disparities. As policymakers consider the implications of these findings, the success of Success Academies may serve as a model for future educational reforms aimed at closing achievement gaps across the nation. The meeting concluded with a call for further exploration of effective strategies that can be implemented in schools nationwide to ensure all students have access to quality education.