The academy model delivers focused, campus-specific thematic learning experiences for students, while fully aligning with the core academic standards of the district.
Mariposa Elementary School will become Mariposa Innovation Academy and Linda Verde Dual Language Immersion School will be renamed Linda Verde Dual Language Academy. Sunnydale Elementary School will become Sunnydale Academy of Marketing and Entrepreneurship and John and Jacquelyn Miller Elementary School will renamed John and Jacquelyn Miller Academy of Art and Media.
Jenny Murawski, principal of Sunnydale, said that this change is part of an educational vision that is forward-thinking and is focused on innovation, preparation for careers in the real world, financial literacy, and leadership. Murawski added:
“By introducing foundational concepts of entrepreneurship, communication, branding, leadership, and business innovation, at the elementary level, we can enable students to pursue their interests and develop skills for long-term success.”
Murawski said that among these skills are collaboration, community engagement, creativity, innovation, communication skills, and development of leadership skills. News of such changes and their benefits for students can be disseminated throughout a school district with flyer printing,
Other schools based on the academy model in the district include Lancaster Alternative and Virtual Academy, The Promise Academy, and Fulton and Alsbury Academy of Arts and Engineering.