The Ọmọladé Academy will celebrate African and Black history and culture through comprehensive education.
Appleton, Wisconsin will soon be home to a groundbreaking new charter school that aims to incorporate African and Black history and culture into its everyday instruction. The Ọmọladé Academy, set to open next fall, will be the first school of its kind in the area. With a focus on closing achievement gaps and promoting a global perspective, this innovative educational institution is poised to provide a culturally relevant education for all students.
A Comprehensive Approach to Cultural Education
The Ọmọladé Academy, run by African Heritage Inc., a local nonprofit, will serve students in kindergarten through third grade. The school’s mission is to celebrate the cultural heritage of African descendants through a curriculum that emphasizes science, technology, reading, engineering, entrepreneurship, arts, and math. Unlike traditional schools that may only touch on Black history during Black History Month, The Ọmọladé Academy will infuse African history and culture into daily instruction, providing a more comprehensive and inclusive education experience.
Thinking “Glocally” and Closing Achievement Gaps
Bola Delano, co-founder of African Heritage Inc. and a professor of education at St. Norbert College, envisions The Ọmọladé Academy as a place where students learn to think “glocally.” This concept encourages students to develop both a global and local perspective, fostering a deeper understanding of diverse communities and the interconnectedness of the world. Additionally, the school aims to close achievement gaps by recognizing the unique gifts and talents of every student and providing a curriculum that cultivates their potential.
Expanding Charter School Options in Appleton
The Appleton Area School District already boasts an impressive number of charter schools, with 14 charter schools and one magnet school currently operating within the district. The Ọmọladé Academy will be the district’s first new charter school in a decade. Superintendent Greg Hartjes believes that the addition of this African-centered charter school will provide families with another valuable option for their children’s education.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
With just nine months until its scheduled opening, The Ọmọladé Academy faces a tight timeline for securing a location, hiring staff, and enrolling students. However, African Heritage Inc. has been planning for over a year and recently finalized its partnership with the Appleton Area School District. The school will be funded through a $1.7 million five-year federal grant from the Department of Education. Both the district and African Heritage Inc. will work together to address the logistical challenges and ensure a successful launch.
Conclusion: The Ọmọladé Academy represents a significant step forward in providing a culturally relevant education for students in the Appleton Area School District. By incorporating African and Black history and culture into everyday instruction, the school aims to create a more inclusive and comprehensive learning environment. With its focus on closing achievement gaps and promoting a global perspective, The Ọmọladé Academy is poised to make a lasting impact on the educational landscape of Appleton. As enrollment opens, families have the opportunity to be part of this groundbreaking educational initiative that celebrates diversity and fosters academic excellence.
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