EDUCATION

A NEW CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL: A NEW VISION TO MOTIVATE, INSPIRE AND EDUCATE YOUNG SYRACUSANS

CNY Institute of Academics and Performance (CNYIAP) will be an innovative charter high school that will give student’s an opportunity to understand the reasons why education is important and how to use classroom experiences to improve their lives. Classes will intertwine with sports or artistic philosophies to give students essential practical knowledge.

CNYIAP Charter School anticipates opening its doors to students entering grade 9, in Onondaga County, New York, in 2014. Founder, Patrina Thomas, Ed. D, A.B.D., is a native of Syracuse, Olympic competitor, and has taught in the city schools for more than 20 years.  After receiving her Masters in Special Education from Syracuse University and working with the youth, Ms. Thomas realized the importance of providing her students with alternative twist on how to deliver education in her classrooms. “Understanding student’s likes and dislikes make all the difference in how lessons are received by students. Once you tap into what motivates a child, you can use that knowledge to increase learning opportunities and motivate self-esteem”.

Co-founder, Dr. Angela Arrey-Wastavino, Ph.D., is an experienced expert in Curriculum and Instruction having extensive practice in the US and abroad. In addition, she was a high performance athlete and currently is a prolific visual artist. She believes that “the key to school success is to be organized and systematic in a cooperative motivational environment.  We will offer all the necessary support, orientation, role-models and hands-on experience as main components of our plan of studies for success at CNYIAP. It is rewarding to observe students’ milestone achievements while they are developing self-confidence that will pave their future.” she said.

Combining their professional and personal experiences, these two educators intend to create a unique model school to prepare responsible citizens.

The mission of CNY Institute of Academics and Performance is to provide collaborative learning efforts among students, educators, parents, artists, athletes, and community and government leaders in Central New York. This will advance academic performance and graduation rates of at-risk high school students. Preparation for college, vocational studies or the work force is the primary objective of CNYIAP. The Institute will encourage lifelong learning by engaging students in rigorous academics and higher thinking skills, empowering them to pursue their academic interests in the field of athletics or visual/performing arts.

The CNY Institute of Academics and Performance Charter School will bring a newly formed interest in education to all students in Central New York. Imagine coming to school to learn everything needed to improve your life through academic lessons geared toward “you” and your interest. At CNYIAP, each student will have the opportunity to understand what it means to be a leader. Career opportunities in the community through exploratory volunteer service and internships will foster real-world experiences for students; this in cooperation with Central New York businesses, offering our students craftsmanship and/or entrepreneurialism exposure.

CNYIAP wants to hire qualified educational leaders who believe in our mission and want to actively participate in the proposed educational reform needed in Central New York. The school wants to utilize the strengths of highly motivated students, parents, educators, administrators, and community/government leaders who agree that our city’s youth can have a bright future through better schooling, nurtured by personal interests in the arts and athletics.

Visit http://cnyinstituteofacademicsandperformance.blogspot.com where you will find updated information. You may also attend our Town Meeting sessions in your neighborhood listed below.  Some sessions will be fully conducted in Spanish. Other activities such as: radio programs and community festivals will offer information for the public. CNYIAP will be a FREE Charter School, subsided by the government; there will be NO tuition to pay.