Military

I am a 6th grade teacher at the West Hertel Academy #94, in Buffalo, NY. The "African" proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child," is in place with rigorous work. Administration, committees, and other staff, cohesively spend endless hours for student and family support, to build a plethora of community wide relationships. Our latest event was the "First Annual 5K Run/Walk." It was exciting to see many students, families, teachers, and staff members participate on a sunny Saturday morning while sidewalk viewers watched with interest! This landmark brought opportunities and experiences for students with their families to engage with the community. This involvement improves self confidence, experience, and a holistic being that strongly connects to their education. Students who rise above the challenges of academia, and become interested in their village, unlock unknown doors, and begin to flourish towards a brighter future. Those students who use the community's available tools will achieve success, while becoming productive citizens of society. West Hertel Academy, students, families, and community is the village it takes to raise a child for school improvement.

This school has done a major turnaround in the past 3 years! Amazing work is accomplished. Students are learning and they are prepared for high school. Teachers who care and students that want to be there.