Message from the Karmala Sherwood, Head of School
"Learning today . . . leading tomorrow." This is our slogan for teaching and nurturing Smith Leadership Academy students in preparation for the future. At the Academy, we know each and every student. We respect their individuality and challenge them to learn about themselves and to celebrate who they are. We engage students in rigorous and challenging academics and we also support and nourish their character development and growth. In the words of graduate Samson Abraha '06, "Smith Leadership Academy has shaped me into the strong young man I am today. Smith Leadership has enlightened me with the history of my ancestors. I have been taught to have a strong state of mind to overcome obstacles." It is this "strong sense of self" and the focus on developing good character that prepares our students for a life of leadership and service. Students learn to embrace the Academy's core values and use them in school and throughout their communities. Therefore, beginning a legacy of leadership and community citizenship that sets our students apart from others.
The Academy is like a second home for many students and they are often reluctant to go home after a long day of academics and enrichment activities. Students and parents alike feel they are always welcome at Smith and they share in the many academic and enrichment activities that continue to nurture and teach, even after the last school bell has rung. As Adekemi Okenla'06 states, "I hope this school will be here in the future, so my children can learn what I've learned."
Teachers spend personal time tutoring and providing various opportunities for enrichment activities. Many students experience the theatre and special speaking engagements, just to name a few of the extra-curricular activities shared with the Academy staff during the week and on weekends. This community of teachers is extremely caring and concerned about the well being of their students. They are always encouraging students to be their personal best. It is our belief that if the whole child is developed in and out of school that they are more likely able to compete with students in private and exam schools throughout the state. Students learn early that there are no shortcuts to success and hard work is what we do!
At Smith Leadership Academy we seek to emphasize the strengths of our students and inspire them to meet their challenges head on. As we meet students where they are we provide them with the academic tools to be confident and successful in our safe and nurturing environment. Perhaps our attendance, which tops 95%, shows that students find the Academy experience worthy to be a place they want to be each and everyday. If you would like to visit our school and see what makes us such a great place to be, I encourage giving a call and coming for a school tour. You are welcome and my door is always open to prospective students and families, as well as members of the SLA school community.
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