Socrates Academy

If I were to describe Socrates Academy in one word, I would have to say "family."  As trite as that sounds, it fits many aspects of working in this school.  This is a diverse family, with all the spice and variety that one could expect to find in any large family, but with one unifying goal, the success of the students.   The daily routines of co-existence, balancing curriculum with state and national goals, global integration with the Greek staff, along with classroom management and the business of teaching is evident, but it is how this is achieved that sets this school apart from many others.This school's staff is a buzz with creativity in this supportive home. Walk down any hallway, on any day and feel the current of engaged students taking part in their classroom as active participants in the Socratic Method of teaching. Classrooms are taught by effective teachers that are continuously in communication with their fellow teachers, striving to learn and share from each other. Students feel support and encouragement from caring adults, but are also reminded of the Socrates Proud rules for behavior, to peacefully maintain unity throughout the grade levels.The staff is familiar with all the students and they find time to greet them, listen to their stories and share in their lives. The students understand that they are loved, but that they are also expected to achieve the high goals set for them. This kindness and respect is created from the top down, from the supportive board and administration down through the teachers to the students. The parents are also active members of the Socrates family, always ready to volunteer many hours and are quick to participate in multiple directions. With this support of EACH member of the family, the students have no choice but to succeed-Laurie Sullivan.-Socrates Academy Art Teacher