Sussex Academy prepares for 2014-15 school year

As the end of the school year approaches, Sussex Academy is already preparing for next year. Sussex Academy welcomed 120 new sixth-grade students and their parents during orientation activities held May 1.

The students met with both teachers and other students to discuss material and supply lists, summer reading and summer math work. Students also toured the school. “We believe the sixth-grade orientation is an important step in creating lasting and meaningful relationships with both our incoming students as well as their parents. The students get an opportunity to put teachers’ names to faces and are given the opportunity to ask questions both of the teachers as well as current students,” said Karen Willey, Everest Team leader.

Parents participated in a bingo game to provide them with a chance to meet each other. “We are an interactive school,” said Dr. Patricia Oliphant, director of curriculum and instruction. “Bingo was not just a friendly way for parents to meet, but it also demonstrated how our students learn at Sussex Academy.” Parent Paul Oliva enjoyed the game. “It was a great ice breaker for every parent who was anxious and excited for their children’s new journey.”

After the meet and greet, parents met in the school gym where they heard presentations about the school curriculum, sports and health requirements. Following the presentations, the sixth-grade teachers were introduced. Parents also had the opportunity to speak with members of the Sussex Academy Parent Teacher Organization and Sports Boosters as well as purchase books for summer reading from Browseabout Books. “It is important for the parents to have the opportunity to learn about Sussex Academy and to have their questions answered,” said Oliphant.

At the conclusion of the orientation, everyone enjoyed a surprise visit from Seymour, the Sussex Academy Seahawk mascot. “Bringing out the mascot was a cool touch,” said Oliva.

Sussex Academy is the only charter school in Sussex County. It currently serves grades six to nine and will be adding one high school class each year until it is fully enrolled in 2016. It uses an Expeditionary Learning approach and will add an International Baccalaureate for grades 11 and 12. Sussex Academy is a public school, and there is no tuition to attend.

Student enrollment for grades nine and 10 is still open. For information, contact Gina Derrickson, community and communications manager at 302-856-3636 or gina.derrickson@saas.k12.de.us.