Greensboro Principal Tracey Duhaime spoke to the group about the things that make the school special, and the list was long: Moral Focus, dedication, commitment, community, support from leadership, and of course, the kids.
National Heritage Academies Founder J.C. Huizenga and Greensboro Academy Principal Tracey Duhaime pose for a photo in front of the school before a celebration assembly for being named a National Blue Ribbon School Friday morning, Oct. 6, 2023.
“We create a family environment and believe it takes a village to raise a child,” Duhaime said. “We work together to not only educate our students but lead them in building character and kindness so they can make a positive impact on the world and those around them.”
Deans Jeff Kinlaw, Amanda Yates, and Tara Chandler all spoke about their love of Greensboro Academy, which has outperformed the local district for 15 years, and the special feel of their school, each receiving wild applause from the students when they were introduced.
From left: Greensboro Academy Deans Jeff Kinlaw, Amanda Yates, and Tara Chandler unveil the National Blue Ribbon School banner during a celebration assembly Friday morning, Oct. 6, 2023.
National Heritage Academies founder J.C. Huizenga encouraged the children to celebrate their accomplishments and said they should be very proud of the honor bestowed upon the school.
“You know, you all are a pretty big deal,” Huizenga told the children. “Out of all the schools in North Carolina, only eight were chosen as Blue Ribbon Schools, and yours was one of them! You should be very proud of all the things you have accomplished.”
The Greensboro Academy band plays a song during the celebration.
Staff lined the walls of the gym as Duhaime spoke of the special atmosphere at the school. She noted the importance of teachers connecting with parents and striving to create the best learning environment for all students.
“Our staff and students work very hard and are dedicated to excellence,” she said. “Greensboro Academy is a special place to work and learn and our entire staff is bursting with pride over this award. It is great to be able to celebrate our success that grows each and every year!”
Congratulations, Greensboro!
Greensboro Principal Tracey Duhaime smiles at a group of students during the celebration.
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About Greensboro Academy
Greensboro Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Greensboro, North Carolina, 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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