Georgia Preparatory Academy Open House: Metro RYDC

DJJ’s Georgia Preparatory Academy (GPA) held a series of Open House events in August that continues during September to kick-off the 2017-2018 school year. Open House allows the parents or guardians of youths housed at Regional Youth Detention Centers (RYDCs) and Youth Development Campuses (YDCs) or attending Education Transition Centers (ETCs) to meet and get to know teachers and educational staff, as well as learn about the curriculum and educational plans for the school year. GPA serves as Georgia’s 181st school district and is accredited by AdvancED. GPA has locations at all 26 DJJ secure facilities around the state and three ETCs. DJJ Commissioner Avery D. Niles (who also serves as Superintendent of Schools) and Associate Superintendent Jean Lee addressed students and parents via a welcome video.







“I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all students and parents to a new school year at Georgia Preparatory Academy. Our schools offer a curriculum aligned with the Georgia Department of Education’s Georgia Standards of Excellence, with opportunities to take vocational and college courses as well,” said Superintendent Niles. “We work very hard every day to address the academic needs of our students. I want to encourage parents or guardians to be active participants in their child’s education while they are enrolled in our programs. My hopes are that all students take this opportunity to participate in the academic success that we offer at the Georgia Preparatory Academy.” 







Associate Superintendent Lee stated, “It is essential that you remain a partner in your child’s education. Our goal is to provide quality educational programs to all of our students while they are here with us. We look forward to seeing you at future events during this school year.” 



 

The Metro RYDC in Atlanta held its Open House on August 30th. Principal Kendall Douglas welcomed parents and guardians and gave a presentation on Title I funding. He also shared information on the upcoming school year and gave away door prizes. “The teachers at the school inside Metro RYDC work to provide educational opportunities for each of our students,” said Principal Douglas. 

 

 

 

“All of our classrooms are equipped with smartboards to encourage interactive learning.” Assistant Commissioner Joe Vignati attended and thanked parents for supporting their child’s education and teachers. He reminded them that every credit their child receives at GPA will be transferred back to schools in the community. Facility Director Wayne Dashield also gave welcoming remarks. Social studies teacher Damien Northern gave parents and students a tour of the classrooms. Science teacher Dr. Cedric Masten chatted with parents during the tour. “It’s good to see the kids take responsibility for their education and especially wonderful to see that spark when they learn something new. I believe all kids are capable of learning,” said Dr. Masten. “I try to incorporate lots of hands-on activities in the classroom. We also strive to integrate art and technology into our science lessons.” Assistant Associate Superintendent Letunya Walker, Deputy Commissioner John Pearson and Regional Principal Muriel Horne also attended the Open House.