Principal Tony Verch is proud to be a part of Apex Academy and the high expectations it encourages for all students. “The high performance levels we’re known for here are a direct result of our staff and how they focus on each child to grow. When a student experiences the personal reward of meeting a goal, it builds confidence for their next goal, and just goes on and on from there.”
Coming to Apex Academy seven years ago, he initially served as Dean (grades 3-5) for five years and is now in his second year as Principal. “This job keeps you on your toes, and that’s what I love about it” he says. “There is always teaching going on, and always students learning — that is evident everywhere.” When talking about the environment at Apex, he loves to point out the atmosphere created here. “When you come to our school you’ll see student achievement boards in the classrooms, student artwork lining the hallways, and
feel the positive energy that comes from students growing and learning every day.”
As the son of an auto-body mechanic, Principal Verch grew up understanding the value of hard work and building something that lasts. He now expresses that understanding in helping students build moral character that will last a lifetime. He recalls a student expo held last year in which a young student stated, “we are defined by who we are, not by our zip code.” He realized the power in that statement because without self-imposed boundaries, we are all capable of achieving anything we want.
Coming to Apex Academy seven years ago, he initially served as Dean (grades 3-5) for five years and is now in his second year as Principal. “This job keeps you on your toes, and that’s what I love about it” he says. “There is always teaching going on, and always students learning — that is evident everywhere.” When talking about the environment at Apex, he loves to point out the atmosphere created here. “When you come to our school you’ll see student achievement boards in the classrooms, student artwork lining the hallways, and
feel the positive energy that comes from students growing and learning every day.”
As the son of an auto-body mechanic, Principal Verch grew up understanding the value of hard work and building something that lasts. He now expresses that understanding in helping students build moral character that will last a lifetime. He recalls a student expo held last year in which a young student stated, “we are defined by who we are, not by our zip code.” He realized the power in that statement because without self-imposed boundaries, we are all capable of achieving anything we want.
“Just the other day, a student came up to me in the hallway and said, “Mr. Verch, I met my goal today!” And the excitement in his voice expressed more than the objective of meeting a set goal — he was excited to learn.” This is why Principal Verch comes to work every day and he encourages parents to stop by anytime. Because just like with his students…he’s here for you.
A Few Things About Principal Verch
- He coached youth hockey for about 15 years and still plays in a recreational league himself.
- He first entered college to pursue a nursing degree, and then accounting (he likes mathematics), but his consistent volunteering with youth sports and camps made him realize a career in childhood education was the right fit.
- He earned his Early Childhood Education degree from Cleveland State University.
- His dad taught him to bowl when he was 5 years old (he has one 300 perfect game).
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About Apex Academy
Apex Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in East Cleveland, Ohio, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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