Blog

<p><br></p><p><strong>Introduction</strong>: Welcome to a new chapter in the story of the Pearl Lee Smith School, an institution deeply rooted in the heart of Savannah’s educational and cultural landscape. As we embark on an ambitious journey to revitalize and expand this historic beacon, our vision encompasses more than just a single campus revival. We are setting the stage for a multi-campus educational system, in collaboration with existing private schools and churches that have long served our vibrant Black community. This initiative is not just a transformation of physical spaces, but a reimagining of community-based education, where tradition meets innovation to empower the next generation.</p><figure id="figure-e2z5karbvclplks5mt"><img id="e2z5karbvclplks5mt" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bt6xXmm2Jh8TTqoCD8xGfOdATsthaPkX2TBKKcX1Cnk9EaHjFge73bJa7pOtwSM.png" alt="MacBook Pro near white open book" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3bt6xXmm2Jh8TTqoCD8xGfOdATsthaPkX2TBKKcX1Cnk9EaHjFge73bJa7pOtwSM.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><p><br></p><p><strong>Bridging Communities Through Education</strong>: The essence of our multi-campus model lies in its ability to bridge various segments of our community, bringing together diverse experiences and perspectives under a unified educational mission. By partnering with established private schools and churches, we aim to create a network of campuses, each offering unique learning environments while sharing core values and educational goals. These partnerships enable us to use existing infrastructures and resources, ensuring a seamless integration of educational programs that cater to the specific needs of our community. From nurturing early childhood development to fostering advanced STEAM skills in older students, each campus will contribute to a holistic educational experience, rooted in cultural richness and forward-looking pedagogy.</p><figure id="figure-wm0nk0xl7lpll0k1i"><img id="wm0nk0xl7lpll0k1i" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12l6sNFCchZUj6XpTrZuczSEzy6BiQ0ZBA1BLkDW2Syx2FxleqR9eYiwSvyLKNcx.png" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12l6sNFCchZUj6XpTrZuczSEzy6BiQ0ZBA1BLkDW2Syx2FxleqR9eYiwSvyLKNcx.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><p><br></p><p><strong>Strengthening Community Ties Through Inclusive Education: </strong>&nbsp;In Savannah, the need for educational models that resonate with and actively support the black community is pressing. The achievement gap between black and white students reflects a broader trend that we aim to address through our multi-campus approach​​. By fostering partnerships with local private schools and churches that have similar goals, we are not just building educational institutions; we are creating community centers that offer culturally relevant education, mental health support, and avenues for cultural and social enrichment. These campuses will not only educate but will also serve as inclusive spaces that bring together diverse community members, fostering unity and understanding.</p><figure id="figure-aspizk98nclpll1xxq"><img id="aspizk98nclpll1xxq" src="https://cdn.durable.co/covers/2lJzYL9LFCrdbZu2Ta3bbqXeFnMfHVlY2MkXRXuD1Ed4xFxUmmkctUhcakHbacta.png" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 40% 40%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionX="40%" data-positionY="40%"/></figure><p><br></p><p><strong>Addressing Educational Disparities and Mental Health Needs</strong> The educational landscape in Savannah is facing urgent challenges. An achievement gap persists, and our Black students often lack access to quality educational resources. Alongside this, the mental health needs of young students, particularly in the Black community, are a growing concern. The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities highlights the importance of supplying access to mental health services, early detection of mental health needs, and coordination between mental health providers and schools​​​​​​​​. Our campuses will prioritize mental health and emotional well-being, integrating services like counseling, therapy, and community support into our educational framework. This comprehensive approach will not only bridge the achievement gap but also ensure our students are mentally and emotionally equipped to succeed in life.</p><figure id="figure-8ql6mnahqblpll7gih"><img id="8ql6mnahqblpll7gih" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11wGHTSypsKnb495ENEVZWuhJwMDNlz6uve5tAfXraKW6pOpw05r36BpSZcb0uoF.png" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11wGHTSypsKnb495ENEVZWuhJwMDNlz6uve5tAfXraKW6pOpw05r36BpSZcb0uoF.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br></p><p><strong>Economic and Social Benefits of the Multi-Campus Project</strong></p><ol><li><strong>Community Engagement and Economic Empowerment</strong>: The multi-campus project is not just an educational initiative; it's a community revitalizer. By creating new jobs in education, administration, and facility maintenance, the project will directly contribute to local employment. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that educational services are a significant employment sector, often driving local economies. Additionally, partnerships with local businesses, especially black-owned businesses, will stimulate economic growth, creating a symbiotic relationship between the school and the community.</li><li><strong>Advancing Self-Sufficiency</strong>: Educational programs in urban gardening and sustainability are more than academic subjects; they are pathways to self-reliance. These skills can lead to increased community food production and open entrepreneurial avenues in green industries. According to the USDA, urban agriculture can enhance food security, reduce food deserts, and contribute to local economies.</li><li><strong>Environmental Sustainability</strong>: By integrating environmental education and sustainable practices, the campuses will contribute to creating a more eco-conscious community. This focus aligns with the Environmental Protection Agency's emphasis on environmental education as a key to sustainable cities, promoting a culture of conservation and responsibility.</li><li><strong>Crime Suppression Through Education</strong>: Educational opportunities are a potent tool in crime prevention. The National Center for Education Statistics highlights that individuals with higher educational attainment have lower rates of criminal involvement. Supplying quality education and engaging after-school programs can offer alternatives and positive pathways for youth, contributing to safer communities.</li><li><strong>Preparing for a Technology-Driven Future</strong>: As we approach a new industrial revolution dominated by technology, STEAM education becomes critical. The World Economic Forum stresses the importance of technology skills for future job markets. By focusing on these areas, the multi-campus project will prepare students for the jobs of the future, ensuring that Savannah's workforce remains competitive and innovative.</li><li><strong>Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Community Development</strong>: This multi-campus initiative is set to provide more than education. It's a steppingstone to a stronger, more resilient community. By addressing education, economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, and crime prevention, we are paving the way for a community that is not only educated but also economically vibrant and secure.</li></ol><figure id="figure-e9zhmmqh7elpll8p2g"><img id="e9zhmmqh7elpll8p2g" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3a4jmjG1GMaLSb9jAP5StRV0d52hwcmjCU4G4oGtHZLPVAtJ6S94BeIbaai5W6Vz.png" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3a4jmjG1GMaLSb9jAP5StRV0d52hwcmjCU4G4oGtHZLPVAtJ6S94BeIbaai5W6Vz.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br></p><p><strong>Rallying Together for Our Future</strong></p><p>As we stand on the cusp of revitalizing the Pearl Lee Smith School, this is more than just a call for support; it's an invitation to be part of a movement. A movement that not only honors our past but also paves the way for a future brimming with opportunity. Each of you holds the power to make a difference. Whether you're a parent, a student, a local business owner, or a concerned citizen, your involvement is the cornerstone of this project's success. By rallying around this cause, you're not just supporting a school; you're nurturing a generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers. Your participation is an investment in our community's future, a declaration that you believe in the potential of every child and the collective strength of our community. Together, let's build not just a school, but a legacy of empowerment, education, and unity.</p><figure id="figure-oxxm4vvx3nlpllboz5"><img id="oxxm4vvx3nlpllboz5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dlCMVEVaNrRQhDZzQnSGrvePj3F2rE4K7u51ch19gDNJqNDSru5oWwLXsFqTnkjw.png" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/dlCMVEVaNrRQhDZzQnSGrvePj3F2rE4K7u51ch19gDNJqNDSru5oWwLXsFqTnkjw.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br></p><p><strong>Conclusion:</strong> Envisioning the Legacy and Future of Pearl Lee Smith School</p><p>Imagine a place where history and future converge—a place where the legacy of Pearl Lee Smith resonates in every classroom, every garden, and every program that empowers our youth. Picture a school that's not just a collection of buildings, but a thriving ecosystem of learning, growth, and community involvement. Visualize campuses bustling with the energy of students immersed in technology, arts, and sustainability, equipped to lead in the next industrial revolution. Envision a community united, not just in memory of what was, but in anticipation of what we can achieve together. This is the future we are building at Pearl Lee Smith School—a future where every student has the opportunity to excel, and every community member has a role to play in shaping that journey.</p><p><br></p><p>Call to Action: Be Part of the Change</p><p>Join us in this transformative journey. Attend our community meetings to share your ideas and hear about our progress. Together, we can reignite the beacon that is Pearl Lee Smith School and illuminate the path to a brighter, more inclusive future for all.</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Sources:</p><p>https://dbhdd.georgia.gov/be-dbhdd/be-supported/mental-health-children-young-adults-and-families</p>

Expanding Horizons: The Future of Education at Pearl Lee Smith School

<h2>Introduction</h2><p>In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the popularity of schools offering grade K through 12 and K through 16 programs. This shift in educational approach has caught the attention of parents, students, and educators alike. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind the growing popularity of these comprehensive educational programs.</p><h3>1. Continuity and Consistency</h3><p>One of the primary reasons why K-12 and K-16 programs are gaining popularity is the continuity and consistency they provide throughout a student's educational journey. By offering all grades under one roof, schools can ensure that students receive a seamless transition from one grade level to another. This eliminates the need for students to adjust to new environments, teachers, and classmates every few years.</p><figure id="figure-n4x7ih96aelnyrz3wk"><img id="n4x7ih96aelnyrz3wk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aHcsVULCMp9pcrOgz2gqY0P5mvh06I3mDi8gn36sbhh3Q7sLex2cJRPxptGR8nO.jpg" alt="continuity consistency" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aHcsVULCMp9pcrOgz2gqY0P5mvh06I3mDi8gn36sbhh3Q7sLex2cJRPxptGR8nO.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>2. Holistic Development</h3><p>K-12 and K-16 programs prioritize holistic development by offering a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities. These programs allow students to explore their interests and talents across various disciplines, including arts, sports, and sciences. By providing a comprehensive educational experience, schools can nurture well-rounded individuals who are equipped with a diverse skill set.</p><figure id="figure-cwxexp72zjlnyrz4hu"><img id="cwxexp72zjlnyrz4hu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38b0G4rHFgL7xbsgm6GXkJrXjaWWi2a3gbzF3qh89pe3TcMDF1SRELD155lNMtp4.jpg" alt="holistic development" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38b0G4rHFgL7xbsgm6GXkJrXjaWWi2a3gbzF3qh89pe3TcMDF1SRELD155lNMtp4.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>3. Individualized Learning</h3><p>Another reason for the growing popularity of K-12 and K-16 programs is the emphasis on individualized learning. These programs recognize that each student has unique strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. By offering personalized attention and tailored curriculum, schools can cater to the specific needs of each student, ensuring their academic success.</p><figure id="figure-zo5ika0qgglnyrz519"><img id="zo5ika0qgglnyrz519" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bNckIiUa0mC7C8LgXIemNPrplYVi4zX3gmUlD9M6cpE2oE3tbcP5ukXLHeISqBY.jpg" alt="individualized learning" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bNckIiUa0mC7C8LgXIemNPrplYVi4zX3gmUlD9M6cpE2oE3tbcP5ukXLHeISqBY.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>4. Enhanced College and Career Readiness</h3><p>K-16 programs, in particular, have gained popularity due to their focus on college and career readiness. By integrating college-level courses and experiences into high school curricula, these programs prepare students for the challenges of higher education and the workforce. This approach allows students to gain a head start on their career paths and make informed decisions about their future.</p><figure id="figure-fksphexfj8lnyrz623"><img id="fksphexfj8lnyrz623" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1515378791036-0648a3ef77b2?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxM3x8Y29sbGVnZSUyMGNhcmVlciUyMHJlYWRpbmVzc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTc4MTYyODB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="college career readiness" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1515378791036-0648a3ef77b2?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxM3x8Y29sbGVnZSUyMGNhcmVlciUyMHJlYWRpbmVzc3xlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTc4MTYyODB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>5. Community and Support</h3><p>K-12 and K-16 schools often foster a strong sense of community and support among students, parents, and educators. With a smaller student body and longer duration of relationships, these schools create a close-knit environment where students feel connected and supported. This sense of belonging can positively impact students' social and emotional well-being, leading to improved academic performance.</p><figure id="figure-9hu2gu3kkvlnyrz6jf"><img id="9hu2gu3kkvlnyrz6jf" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1517486808906-6ca8b3f04846?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMHx8Y29tbXVuaXR5JTIwc3VwcG9ydHxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTc4MTYyODB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="community support" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1517486808906-6ca8b3f04846?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMHx8Y29tbXVuaXR5JTIwc3VwcG9ydHxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTc4MTYyODB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>6. Flexibility and Customization</h3><p>K-12 and K-16 programs offer flexibility and customization options that traditional schools may lack. Students can choose from a variety of courses, electives, and extracurricular activities to tailor their educational experience to their interests and goals. This flexibility allows students to explore different subjects, discover their passions, and pursue specialized areas of study.</p><figure id="figure-g2bwvjcx3qlnyrz7in"><img id="g2bwvjcx3qlnyrz7in" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/19tOaqfgBlyYNXU11MEYIlJ9gxnIJ7fksibYnigiiDj8Q8rfRoShBzgvu1X8JxSK.jpeg" alt="Businessman pressing an Education concept button." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/26rgO2a6WEZpuPD5m3AoQ51Wt8Zbz1kHmBfb82z8tbR1UdI0n8gVGBtj53izWPy6.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>7. Streamlined Transitions</h3><p>Transitions from one educational level to another can be challenging for students. K-12 and K-16 programs minimize these transitions by providing an uninterrupted educational journey from kindergarten through high school and beyond. This continuity not only reduces the stress associated with changing schools but also ensures that students can build upon their prior knowledge and skills seamlessly.</p><figure id="figure-4o35lv7i9slnyrz8n4"><img id="4o35lv7i9slnyrz8n4" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/1e1Rbhkc0IwYdF9Rk83L6g4by6hdjK7aPYecQEGcskAgEJm7AmCI4ij6s2x4Zjyj.jpeg" alt="Many kids in kindergarten play games with teacher" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/1axncxDLpMopSRYgubV3DqkUGoIg9I2OJH4K1Ot6g3IT4kq6AjjK20OH3NlqiS2T.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>8. Parental Involvement</h3><p>K-12 and K-16 programs often encourage and value parental involvement in their child's education. By offering all grade levels in one school, parents can actively participate in their child's academic journey throughout the years. This collaboration between parents and educators fosters a strong support system and enhances the overall educational experience for the students.</p><figure id="figure-8e936kmbkqlnyrz9ub"><img id="8e936kmbkqlnyrz9ub" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2171LiidrLqeqk05Mk0l03o0HcsVLhJdcXdtLC3Z1xSLS96VkZ9osh14fspRZbCh.jpeg" alt="Portrait Of Teenage Students Outside School Building" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null"/></figure><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>The increasing popularity of schools offering grade K through 12 and K through 16 programs can be attributed to their ability to provide continuity, holistic development, individualized learning, college and career readiness, community support, flexibility, streamlined transitions, and parental involvement. These comprehensive educational programs offer students a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in higher education and beyond. As more parents and students recognize the benefits of these programs, their popularity is likely to continue to grow in the coming years.</p>

Why schools offering grade k through 12 and k through 16 programs are growing in popularity.

<h2>Unlocking the Potential of School Choice in Georgia</h2><p>Education is the foundation for a successful future, and ensuring that every child has access to high-quality education is crucial. In recent years, school choice has emerged as a powerful tool to empower parents and students in making educational decisions. In the state of Georgia, school choice initiatives have gained momentum, providing families with more options and opportunities for their children's education.</p><h3>What is School Choice?</h3><p>School choice refers to the ability of parents to choose the educational environment that best fits their child's needs. This can include public schools, charter schools, private schools, online learning, homeschooling, and more. By expanding the range of options available to families, school choice aims to promote competition, innovation, and improved outcomes in education.</p><h3>The Benefits of School Choice</h3><p>School choice offers numerous benefits for students, families, and communities. Firstly, it allows parents to tailor their child's education to their individual needs and interests. Every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. School choice empowers parents to find the right fit for their child, whether it's a specialized program, a smaller class size, or a particular teaching approach.</p><figure id="figure-z2k2zvh24qlnytiy92"><img id="z2k2zvh24qlnytiy92" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/16e4elrZzm4PPcuJFKkBQo9WoSD5wt0PIobJEJo3o1GZT7Q2ZgNKdiTBd92bUJO1.jpeg" alt="school choice" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null"/></figure><p>Secondly, school choice fosters competition among schools, driving them to improve their offerings and performance. When schools have to compete for students, they are incentivized to innovate and provide high-quality education. This benefits all students, regardless of whether they attend a traditional public school or choose an alternative option.</p><h3>School Choice in Georgia</h3><p>Georgia is home to a wide range of private schools, catering to various educational needs. Whether you're looking for religious schools or specialized institutions for children with unique needs, Georgia has it all. With approximately 870 private schools across the state, the average tuition stands at $11,362 for elementary schools and $12,149 for high schools.<br></p><p>Georgia has made significant strides in expanding school choice options for families. The state offers a variety of programs, including charter schools, scholarship programs, and virtual learning opportunities. These initiatives aim to provide parents with more choices and ensure that every child has access to a quality education.</p><figure id="figure-7grm59337flnytj02k"><img id="7grm59337flnytj02k" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1523050854058-8df90110c9f1?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMXx8c2Nob29sJTIwY2hvaWNlJTIwZ2VvcmdpYXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTc4MTg4ODV8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="school choice georgia" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1523050854058-8df90110c9f1?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMXx8c2Nob29sJTIwY2hvaWNlJTIwZ2VvcmdpYXxlbnwwfHx8fDE2OTc4MTg4ODV8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p><strong>Scholarships: Making Private Education Accessible</strong></p><p>Georgia also offers a specialized scholarship program for children with special needs. Expanded in 2021, this program now includes students with a 504 plan, covering conditions like autism, cancer, and drug abuse among others.</p><p>&nbsp;This program allows parents of children with special needs to choose a private school that can better meet their child's unique educational requirements. It gives parents the freedom to find an environment that provides specialized support and resources.</p><p>Worried about the cost? Georgia's Qualified Education Expense Tax Credit program has got you covered. This initiative allows donors to receive tax credits when contributing to scholarship organizations. To apply for a scholarship, simply reach out to one of the Student Scholarship Organizations listed on the Georgia Department of Education's website. They can guide you through the availability and application process. In 2022, the state legislature even increased the cap on donations to this program, making more scholarships available.<br></p><p><strong>Innovative Education Models</strong></p><p>Georgia's private schools are not just diverse in type but also in their approach to education. Take Cornerstone Preparatory Academy, for example. They employ a "University Model," where secondary students attend classes on campus three days a week and complete assignments at home on the other two days. This model not only reduces tuition but also allows parents to be actively involved in their children's education.<br></p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>School choice has the potential to transform education in Georgia by empowering parents, promoting competition, and improving outcomes for students.&nbsp; Georgia's private schools offer a plethora of choices in education styles, curricula, and cultures. With scholarships and tax credits available, a private education is more accessible than ever. So why limit your options? Explore the world of school choice in Georgia today!&nbsp; &nbsp;By expanding the range of options available, families can find the best fit for their child's needs, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive. As Georgia continues to embrace school choice initiatives, the future of education looks brighter than ever.</p><p>Sources:</p><p>1. &nbsp; &nbsp;goalscholarship.org - Eligibility Requirements<br>2. &nbsp; &nbsp;edchoice.org - Georgia - Qualified Education Expense Tax Credit<br>3. &nbsp; &nbsp;cornerstoneprep.org - History Timeline<br>4. &nbsp; &nbsp;payitforwardscholarships.com - Pay it Forward Scholarships<br>5. &nbsp; &nbsp;dor.georgia.gov - Qualified Education Expense Tax Credit<br>6. &nbsp; &nbsp;cornerstoneprep.org - The University-Model and Cornerstone<br></p><p><br></p>

Unlocking the Potential of School Choice in Georgia

<h3><strong>Introduction</strong></h3><p>Hello, Savannah community members,</p><p>I am thrilled to announce an ambitious initiative to breathe life back into a valuable community asset—Pearl Lee Smith School in Historic Carver Village. Your support and involvement are crucial for turning this vision into a reality. Read on to learn how you can contribute to the revival of this historic institution.</p><h3><strong>The History of Pearl Lee Smith: A Rich Historical Backdrop</strong></h3><p>Pearl Lee Smith School, originally known as Springfield Terrace School, has been a cornerstone in Carver Village since its construction in 1926. For decades, this school served as a beacon of education, community, and growth in Savannah (Savannah Business Journal, 2022).&nbsp; </p><p>The Pearl Lee Smith School was built during a time when segregation was still present in the United States. It was one of the few schools that African American children could attend in the area. The school was named after Pearl Lee Smith, who was a prominent educator in the community. She was known for her dedication to the education of African American children and was a driving force behind the establishment of the school.</p><p>Constructed in 1926, originally as Springfield Terrace School, this institution has a history deeply intertwined with Carver Village. Remarkably, this was made possible through the generosity of the Rosenwald Fund, a Jewish philanthropic organization committed to supporting black communities during a period of intense racial segregation. The fund provided essential resources, including land and funding, to ensure that the school could serve as an educational bastion for the black community. This history adds another layer of significance to the already historic nature of the school (Savannah Business Journal, 2022).</p><h3><strong>The School’s Legacy</strong></h3><p>The Pearl Lee Smith School has always been more than just a landmark. It is a symbol of community spirit, academic resilience, and growth. The school has groomed leaders, nurtured intellects, and fostered community well-being for decades.</p><h3><strong>The Reopening</strong></h3><p>The reopening of the Pearl Lee Smith School is a significant event for the community. The school will once again serve as a hub for education and community events. The school will offer a range of programs, including after-school programs, adult education classes, and community events.</p><p>The school will also serve as a museum, showcasing the history of African American education in the area. The museum will feature exhibits on the history of the school, as well as the history of African American education in the area. The museum will also host events and lectures on the history of the school and the community.</p><h3><strong>Bridging the Educational Gap</strong></h3><p>Today, the education landscape in Savannah faces an urgent need for revitalization. Reports reveal that over half of Savannah-Chatham County Public School facilities are nearing 'critical condition' (Savannah Now, 2023). Moreover, there's an undeniable achievement gap affecting our students. The reopening of Pearl Lee Smith School will be a monumental step in addressing these issues. We aim to focus on project-based learning and STEAM education, to ensure that all students have access to quality education, irrespective of their backgrounds.</p><h3><strong>Call to Action</strong></h3><p>Here’s how you can contribute:</p><p><strong>Spread the Word</strong>: Share this post, talk to your neighbors, and make sure the community knows.</p><p><strong>Attend Community Meetings</strong>: We'll be hosting public forums for sharing plans and collecting your invaluable inputs.</p><p><strong>Volunteer</strong>: Help is needed at every stage, from planning and fundraising to executing.</p><h3><br>Conclusion</h3><p>Let's come together to not just preserve a historical edifice but to rekindle a beacon of hope and opportunity in the form of Pearl Lee Smith School. Your active participation is not just welcomed, it’s crucial.</p><h3>References</h3><ul><li>"March 25 - Springfield Terrace School added to the National Register of Historic Places", Savannah Business Journal, 2022</li><li>"Savannah-Chatham Schools looks westward for growth", Savannah Now, 2023</li></ul><p><br></p><figure id="figure-lk194eo4czlnxhft98"><img id="lk194eo4czlnxhft98" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2atDblNMrz8nt6XHJtYT4e3ivHETdfge4ROPISxR5kyoR0EwOl58kkobKAI3WOWz.png" alt="historic carver village" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2atDblNMrz8nt6XHJtYT4e3ivHETdfge4ROPISxR5kyoR0EwOl58kkobKAI3WOWz.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

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Expanding Horizons: The Future of Education at Pearl Lee ...

Why schools offering grade k through 12 and k through 16 ...

Unlocking the Potential of School Choice in Georgia

Rekindling the Legacy: Reviving Pearl Lee Smith School in...