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Chelsea Opportunity Academy lauded for relationship‑centered approach
Summary
Ron Schmidt, founding principal of Chelsea Opportunity Academy, described COA’s model of trust‑based relationships for newcomer and at‑risk students, crediting that approach with giving students a second chance and helping Chelsea win All‑America City recognition.
Ron Schmidt, founding principal of Chelsea Opportunity Academy, told the crowd that COA centers its work on nonjudgmental relationships and trust to reach students who face barriers that traditional schools sometimes cannot accommodate. "We've learned that every we live every day leveraging the power of nonjudgmental relationships. We lead with trust," Schmidt said, describing how the school offers flexible supports for students balancing jobs, family care and mental health needs.
Schmidt said the All‑America City recognition reflects the school’s and the city’s combined efforts to provide educational pathways for newcomer youth and other students. He thanked the city manager, the superintendent and community partners for enabling COA’s approach, and urged continued support for programs that help students finish high school and pursue further opportunities.
