Sussex Academy honored at IDEA awards

Sussex Academy won four awards at the recent Delaware Charter School Network IDEA Awards banquet. Innovation, Dedication, Education and Admiration Awards recognize the dedication and hard work of the entire charter school community including teachers, students, leaders, legislators, parents and community members.

Sussex Academy received the Inches and Miles award, which recognizes that growth is an important measure for students and celebrates the work schools do for students. The academy also won an Excellence in Academics award, honoring schools that practice excellence in academics and those that are working hard toward that goal.

Krista and Stuart Griffin were honored with the Community Ties award for demonstrating a strong partnership between a charter school and a person or organization that positively impacts education and the community at large. The Griffins were recognized for their work on the Lewes Dragon Boat Festival, an event they organized and brought to Lewes. Over the last four years, the event has brought the community together and has raised over $190,000 toward the Sussex Academy capital campaign.

Director of Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Patricia S. Oliphant received the Impact award. During her 14 years at Sussex Academy, Oliphant has clearly met and exceeded the criteria of being a visionary for significant educational improvements that inspire others, using innovative and creative approaches, and addressing the compelling needs of students.

Sussex Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Georgetown serving sixth through 12th grades. The school uses a project-based learning approach, and all 11th- and 12th-grade students will be enrolled in the International Baccalaureate program. For school tours and high school shadowing appointments, contact Gina Derrickson, community and communications manager, at 302-856-3636 or gina.derrickson@saas.k12.de.us.