Elite Academic Academy achieves Level 1 certification in Marzano High Reliability Schools
Elite Academic Academy is pleased to announce the achievement of Level 1 certification in Marzano High Reliability Schools™. Level 1 certification means Elite Academic Academy has created a “Safe, Supportive, and Collaborative Culture,” which is the foundation for every level that follows. Without such a culture, student achievement will be compromised. Day-to-day school operations are addressed and evaluated in Level 1.
The high reliability school (HRS) program was created by Marzano Resources to help transform schools into organizations that take proactive steps to ensure student success. Using a research-based five-level hierarchy, along with leading and lagging indicators, educators learn to assess, monitor, and confirm the effectiveness of their schools.
This framework, based on 50 years of educational research, defines five progressive levels of performance that a school must master to become an HRS—where all students learn the content and skills they need for success in college, careers, and beyond.
“As you move through the levels, it represents a complete transformation in how schools are run,” says CEO Robert J. Marzano.
Schools must collect data and validate their performance to climb each level of the hierarchy. Certification is determined by Marzano Resources analysts in cooperation with school data teams.
Using the HRS framework and indicators, schools can drive sustained, positive, and significant impacts on student achievement by synthesizing multiple complex initiatives into one harmonious system.
For more information or media inquiries, please contact [email protected].
About Marzano Resources
Built on the foundation of Dr. Robert J. Marzano’s 50 years of education research, Marzano Resources supports teachers and administrators through customizable on-site professional development, educator events, virtual coaching, books, videos and online courses. Our associates and authors are thought leaders in the field of education and deliver research-backed guidance for all major areas of schooling, including curriculum development, instruction, assessment, student engagement and personalized competency-based education.
About Elite Academic Academy
Elite Academic Academy (EAA) TK-12 Charter School is the premier independent study educational option. We focus on flexible, individualized homeschool, virtual, and blended academies for students choosing not to attend traditional brick-and-mortar schools. Our primary goal is to provide individualized instruction for all students to accelerate performance. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.
Elite Esports Soars in Inaugural Semester
Elite Academic Academy is proud to announce the immense success of our Elite Esports Club, which is in its inaugural year, with our team taking first place in three different tournaments while competing in the Vanta Leagues.
“Esports is a truly amazing club with exceptional coaches and teammates,” said William L, an Esports Club member and student. “It provides a great opportunity to connect with other students through competitive gameplay while having fun. Esports has taught me leadership skills and other important life lessons. I love the esports club!”
In the Elite Esports Club's first year of league play, the team has done an amazing job and claimed first place in Super Smash Bros Ultimates and Madden this fall. The club has students playing competitively in Rocket League, Super Smash Bros., Fortnite, and Madden. Led by Elite Esports Club Advisors Justin Diaz and Sam Keeley, the club has thrived since its inception, creating new opportunities for students interested in competitive gaming, working as a team, and having fun at the same time.
“I am extremely grateful for the students who have chosen to participate in the inaugural season of Elite Academic Academy's esports teams,” said Elite Esports Club Advisor Sam Keeley. “I'm beyond proud of what we have accomplished within a few short months and excited to continue to grow the program. Elite Academic Academy's esports program will continue to serve as an outlet for our students to grow as people, be part of a team, compete, and lead through a modern medium that speaks to them.”
In addition to the club, Elite Academic Academy has an Esports CTE Pathway. The Esports pathway is designed for students interested in the field of competitive gaming. As part of this curriculum, students will gain insights into the esports industry’s rich history, current trends, and potential future. Students will also explore the diverse roles within esports, from players to casters, managers, and developers. Students will explore esports strategies, team dynamics, and game theory across popular gaming platforms. This pathway provides students with a foundational understanding of the esports landscape and enables them to navigate and thrive in a rapidly evolving domain.
Students interested in joining the Elite Esports Club are invited to learn more at https://www.eliteacademic.com/clubs/.
For more information or media inquiries, please contact [email protected].
Elite Academic Academy Achieves Historic Milestone as the First Non-Classroom-Based HOSA Chapter in California
Elite Academic Academy is pleased to announce that they are the first non-classroom-based program to earn acceptance as an official HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) California Chapter.
“Starting a HOSA chapter at Elite opens up a world of opportunity for our students,” said Lupe Rodriguez, Associate Director of Career Technical Education (CTE) at Elite Academic Academy.” It's more than just learning about health science and careers; it's about developing leadership skills, understanding the importance of ethical practices, and building a strong sense of community. HOSA gives students a glimpse into the healthcare industry, inspiring a more profound interest and passion in medicine. It's an excellent way for them to gain real-world insights and prepare for future careers in healthcare. I'm excited to see how this chapter will help develop compassionate, skilled professionals ready to make a real difference.”
HOSA, renowned as a Career Technical Student Organization, is tailored for students with a keen interest in pursuing rewarding careers within the health professions sector. HOSA offers invaluable opportunities for leadership development, motivation, and recognition. Through active participation in HOSA, students gain access to diverse avenues for enhancing their knowledge, refining their skills, and honing their leadership abilities. This includes engagement in competitive events, educational workshops, and valuable networking opportunities with esteemed healthcare professionals.
HOSA's designation for Elite Academic Academy signifies a groundbreaking leap forward, underlining our commitment to excellence and innovation in non-traditional academic pursuits. We are elated by this significant achievement and eagerly anticipate continued growth and success with our educational academies.
Elite Academic Academy is a K-12 public charter school that serves students across Southern California. With three distinguished academies: Homeschool, Flex, and Virtual- we aim to meet every student’s educational needs and pursuits. Elite also offers courses through our Career Technical Education (CTE) department, with courses that prepare students for the modern-day workforce, such as the healthcare industry, marketing, and educational fields.
For more information or media inquiries, please contact Chief Student Development Officer Ashlea Kirkland-Haynes at akirkland @eliteacademic.com.
About Elite Academic Academy Elite Academic Academy (EAA) TK-12 Charter School is the premier independent study educational option. We focus on flexible, individualized homeschool, virtual, and blended academies for students choosing not to attend traditional brick-and-mortar schools. Our primary goal is to provide individualized instruction for all students to accelerate performance. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.
About HOSA HOSA is a global student-led organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services, and several federal and state agencies. HOSA’s mission is to empower HOSA-Future Health Professionals to become leaders in the global health community through education, collaboration, and experience. HOSA actively promotes career opportunities in the health industry and enhances the delivery of quality health care to all people. HOSA’s goal is to encourage all health science instructors and students to affiliate and be actively involved in the HSE-HOSA Partnership.
Peak Performance Kick-Off 2023 at SoFi Stadium
We had a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime kickoff to our Peak Performance Program at our SoFi event! Hundreds of students from across Southern California arrived in style with their teams via charter bus, ran out of the Rams tunnel, participated in Athletic benchmark testing on the field with Zybek sports, and had several celebrity and athletic speakers, such as actor Noel G and former NFL player Spencer Tillman. It was a night to remember! Thank you, everyone, for your attendance and support in celebrating our amazing athletes!
Elite Honored as a 2023 California Distinguished School
Elite Academic Academy-Mountain Empire has earned the honor of becoming a California Distinguished School.
This honor is a prestigious two-year honor given to the state's top-performing schools using performance indicators specified on the California School Dashboard. This is only possible due to the innovative and collaborative efforts of our fantastic teaching staff, students, parents, classified staff, community partners, and the administrative team!
Teacher Spotlight - Mrs. Catheryn Reardon, PhD
Catheryn, Reardon, PhD is an Elite educator with the Virtual Program who has been a teacher for 15 years. She loves helping students in meeting their goals to succeed! She works with students one on one, and their families, to ensure that they are progressing in their courses, and receive the support they need when challenges arise.
I am also their cheerleader when it comes to their academic progress and working towards their long term goals! I also love to support my student athletes, and those involved in the arts! I am also the content teacher for High School English in grades 11 and 12, and love to assist my content students by providing tutoring and live sessions that go over difficult concepts.
Mrs. Reardon, her husband and 2 daughters enjoying some sun!
Mrs. Reardon was inspired to get into teaching after her first of three daughters was born.
I spent my first career in journalism and publishing, but fell in love with teaching after the birth of my first daughter. I went back to school to earn my credentials to become a teacher, and then taught in the physical classroom for several years before switching to online teaching in 2008. I continued my learning so I could better serve my students in the online environment and went on to earn a Master's degree in Education, and then a Ph.D. in General Psychology in Technology and Learning. As a lifelong learner myself, I try to promote that love of learning for my students so they not only see the value of education, but how accessible it is for them too!
She really enjoys teaching at Elite and has found a home with the Virtual Program!
I love teaching in the remote environment and appreciate that this format of learning allows students to attend in a flexible setting that best meets their academic needs and busy schedules. This is a wonderful setting for many student athletes, and those who need a more flexible format of learning. It is also a wonderful option in light of current events!
We asked Mrs. Reardon what she would like to say to her current and future students:
I would tell them that I will be their biggest cheerleader, and I am on their team! I think often times it can be scary to be an online student because you are unsure of who is on the other side of the computer screen. However, I take joy in my student's successes, and in their failures too so that we can create a game plan to help them succeed. There is no one size fits all in education and it is my job to find that perfect fit for my students in their online learning so that they can gain confidence and grow as a student! :)
Mrs. Reardon definitely stays busy outside of the virtual classroom. She love to swim and take long walks, watch her daughter's Water Polo teams, and attend many athletic events. She is a huge Disneyland fan, or in her words, a "Disney Geek"! Our Elite Virtual students are very lucky to have such a caring, experienced and hands on teacher. Thank you Mrs. Reardon for everything that you bring to Elite Academic Academy!
Elite's 2020 Graduating Class Valedictorian - Emily Rowley
Our 2020 Graduating Class is nothing short of fantastic. They have all worked very hard and it has been a joy to see them grow and work towards their goals. Elite Academic Academy (EAA) has chosen Emily Rowley, a senior from our Homeschool Program, as our Valedictorian for the Class of 2020. Jenny Soulias, her teacher, explains why Emily exemplifies what it means to be "Elite" and is the perfect choice for Valedictorian:
Emily has a heart of gold. She is a kind, warm person who is simply a joy to be around. Academically, her eagerness to learn is exhibited in everything she does, and her work is impressive. She perseveres through challenging times and looks at everything as an opportunity to grow. It was wonderful having Emily as part of the Elite family!
Emily will be attending UC Berkeley this fall and majoring in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science. She was honored to accept the position as Valedictorian, just one more accomplishment before she heads off to college.
My favorite thing about Elite has been working with my teachers to create a class schedule and even custom classes that are specific to my interests. I've been able to take a lot of classes in computer science, deep learning and math that have helped me achieve my goals and prepared me for my major at Cal. My teachers have always been super supportive of my goals, and their encouragement has been invaluable in my high school journey.
We know this is just the beginning for you Emily, and we cannot wait to see everything that you accomplish in the future! Congratulations Emily and to the entire 2020 EAA graduating class.
The Virtual Academy Experience, Through the Eyes of 8th Grader Hannah Phan
Elite teacher Vanessa Vosburg is very proud of Hannah Phan, a hard working and dedicated 8th grade student in Elite's Virtual Academy. Hannah is a joy to meet with and her enthusiasm rubs off on the teachers who get to work with her. Hannah is very thoughtful and insightful, often turning meetings with Ms. Vosburg into literary analysis and various discussions. When she isn't conquering her classes, Hannah enjoys reading, playing board games and video games, or practicing skateboarding!
Recently, Hannah was asked to share her thoughts about her experiences with Elite. In response, Hannah penned the below essay, which she has graciously allowed us to share with everyone.
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Lately, because of the outbreak of the coronavirus, many schools have been converting to online schools and students have had their first experience in the world of virtual school. Online school has earned a smudged reputation because of this. Students entered virtual school in a
harsh and swift manner and in an unprepared state of mind, and therefore some have negative feelings towards it. They were not able to be eased into the virtual school environment and instead were thrown into it without a choice. This essay is for students and parents alike to
inform them of why online school is actually the most favorable choice for them or their child.
The environment of a home virtual school is, well, home! Because of the ongoing virus, schools have needed to transform their educational environment into virtual studies to allow people to stay home and social distance. Students can work on their schoolwork in the comfort of
their own home or anywhere they have an internet connection. All of their supplies and materials are easily accessible. Students of official online schools and academies do not have a tight and early schedule to adjust to; instead they can craft their own daily work calendar to keep
themselves on task. Even while working at home, they can still easily separate their school and home life. Crafting a daily work schedule for school will help them to set times to work and times to chill, nap, eat, read, exercise, etc. Virtual students can also separate their school and
home lives by having a designated work area, such as a desk or table, that is separated from where they spend their free time. The comfort and accessibility of a home environment allows students to focus more easily on their schoolwork. At first, having your school life in the comfort of your own home can feel intrusive and it can be a challenge to separate work from play, but both lives combined in one place is more advantageous than you would think.
There are virtual school advantages for parents, too! Having your kids get ready to go to school in the mornings and picking them up when school is out can be a hassle and frustrating to your own work and home life. With online school, you also don’t have to worry too much about your gas tank. A survey by SchoolCountry.com shows that commute costs can make up 12-18% of total school fees. Yet, students could get restless at home without any school events to attend; however, Elite Virtual Academy (EVA) offers many different exciting and engaging field trips for virtual students. Students can choose from local or long-distance field trips and can find activities that meet their needs; such as music or dance lessons, or even joining a sports academy if they are interested.
Virtual school comes with many more perks and advantages than just being at home. Elite Virtual Academy charges no fees of any kind for any applications, classes, tutoring, materials, etc. In fact, EVA gives students the opportunity to earn free mailed goodies and prizes
to them. They host art contests, video contests, name drawings, and more that earn students goodies and cool Elite merch. I have personally won art supplies for placing in an art contest (a sketchbook and fine tip gel pens along with Elite Academy sunglasses). Parents don’t have to worry about that extra burden on their wallets and bank accounts by not having to pay for books, tuition, tutors, stationary, uniforms, commute fees, lunch, and more.
With online school comes quite a few personal benefits. In Elite Virtual Academy you can work at your own pace and there are no mandatory due dates, only at the end of each semester. Students of EVA have periodic virtual meetings with the teachers that are both educational and enjoyable. They are especially helpful and productive because of the one-on-one help and tutoring that the students usually would not receive in the average school classroom. Virtual students also have the opportunity to spend more personal time going out and spending
time with family and friends. Students gain both academic and personal advantages when schooling at home.
Doing physical education (P.E.) in the comfort of your home is a much more enjoyable activity because of the ability of personalization. As an eighth grader, in P.E. class I am required to perform forty minutes of P.E. daily and to submit what I did and for how long at the end of each week. The best part is that any type of exercising is acceptable. You can walk your dog, swim, dance, skateboard, bike, do cardio, play sports, weightlift, do yoga... you get the idea.Having the choice of choosing what to do for P.E. class while still having to meet a certain criterion makes us students work and play hard while still having fun by doing our own undesignated physical activities. P.E. makes up for sitting at our screens a majority of the day, and, of course, it helps us stay in a healthy, happy condition.
Studying at Elite Virtual Academy is a blessing for students and parents alike. You or your child being able to stay in the safety of their homes during this pandemic is both reassuring and beneficial. The accommodations and compromises made to fit a student’s personal life are immensely useful to their individual lifestyles and academic well-being. The absence of fees and the companionship of their teachers also contribute greatly to their education. The capability of personalized and private physical activities motivate students to stay on task with their P.E. and contributes to a healthy mind and body. My experience as an eighth grader in Elite Academy has genuinely been exciting and influential. The material I learn on the daily inspires me to continue to learn more and I truly retain that information. One of my favorite perks of online school is the personal free time, which I can utilize to work on my mental health and physique. Virtual school allows me to use my time for self care and it puts no strain on my academic performance, unlike the pressuring workloads and schedules of traditional schools. Taking everything into account, online school is the most desirable option for both children and their parents because of the easygoing, financially beneficial, and low-pressure environment at home.
Explore Colleges Virtually
By Salvador Becerra, School Counselor
There is no time like the present to start exploring academic programs that colleges/universities have to offer. Do you want to attend a school next to the beach? Do you want to attend a school with over 30,000 students on campus? Or would you rather attend a smaller college/university where you can receive a more personal approach to your education? All these questions are important as it can help you select the college/university that is right for you.
Here are 5 helpful tips in finding the college that is right for you
- Develop a short list of schools you would like to attend.
- Rank your priorities in what you are looking for in a college.
- Does the college/university offer your academic program?
- Focus on your endgame, consider which college will help you reach your goals.
- Investigate college/universities connections with future employers
With colleges/universities being closed to the general public, there are other ways of exploring your options. YouVisit provides you access to over 600 campuses across the united states. Each of the virtual campus tours will provide you with an immersive college tour experience. You can explore each institution through 360 experience or by using VR device to get a more realistic experience. Check it out and start exploring today.
Elite Virtual Academy Success Story: Ally Krahn
Elite Virtual Academy (EVA) is for the independent learner who enjoys technology. Students who choose this model have the flexibility to complete their 100% online courses while enjoying ample support from highly qualified instructors and caring counselors. Ally Krahn is an 11th grader that has found academic and personal success with EVA, and her instructors have certainly noticed.
Due to a recently diagnosed medical condition, Ally was looking for a school that would accommodate the school - life balance she needed. Ally joined EVA in 2019 and found that it was exactly what she was looking for. “She has been excelling in her work in EVA all year, and we're truly proud of her,” says Evan Jorgensen, Elite’s Director of EVA.
Now that she is settled in with Elite and is on top of her grades, Ally enjoys being a part of many extracurricular activities. “I like to practice the piano and draw. I started to play the piano when I was 7 and grew to love it from there. I’ve always loved to draw, however, I started taking it more seriously this past year. I like to volunteer almost every day at Priceless Pets adoption center, and I also spend time as a volunteer at our local library."
Ally’s plans for the future include becoming a nurse and going to Loma Linda University. As she will be a 12th grader next year, she hopes to take college classes during that time to get a head start on pursuing her next degree. Elite Academic Academy is thrilled to offer a truly superior online learning experience for their Virtual Students, where they can keep a healthy balance between learning and pursuing extracurricular activities.
If you or someone you know is looking for a personalized education with an academy that meets your learning needs and an enrichment program that assists in pursuing your passion, visit our virtual page to learn more and find out how to enroll.
