CGLA|MEHP Annual Impact Report 22-23

ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT 2022 -

2023

ONE VISION

MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO

As we stand on the cusp of another school year, the fusion of CGLA and MEHP has brought forth a singular community united by two institutions and a shared vision. It is with a profound sense of honor that I find myself engaged with exceptional educators from both schools, individuals whose unswerving dedication to our mission and vision is nothing short of inspiring. Together, we embark on the noble journey of guiding each student along their academic trajectory, fostering an environment that nurtures growth and excellence. In this pursuit, I am reminded of the wisdom espoused by Dr. Carol Dweck, whose research affirms that the “growth mindset” is not merely a trait inherited through genes, but a mindset cultivated through deliberate effort.

Our unwavering focus is channeled into crafting remarkable outcomes, igniting the spark of inspiration within every student, and preparing them for a life of purpose and choice. The conviction that the foundation of a collegiate journey is laid even in Pre-K years is paramount in our approach, and it is with this ethos that we mark the commencement of our third year at Montessori Elementary at Highland Park.

On the 2nd of August this year, we warmly welcomed both new and returning families to the inaugural moments of the 2023-24 school year at Montessori Elementary at Highland Park and the Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy. The nascent steps of this academic year have been resolute and impactful, underscoring our daily commitment to ensure that EVERY student is equipped for life’s challenges

and armed with the essential proficiencies sought by the dynamic realms of business and industry. To this end, our faculty and staff pledge to deliver a curriculum that is simultaneously rigorous and captivating, instilling a love for learning within our students.

In the eloquent words of Ron Edmunds, “Three statements remain from this discourse: (a) We possess the capacity to educate all students under our purview effectively, irrespective of circumstance; (b) Our knowledge surpasses the threshold required to accomplish this feat; and (c) The decision to do so hinges on our sentiment towards the fact that we have not yet fully realized this aspiration.”

At CGLA and MEHP, we are driven by the prospect of metamorphosing the trajectories of our students, teaching with the tenets of a growth mindset, and embracing the profound duty of educating each unique individual.

To our allies within the MEHP and CGLA community, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support. We urge you to remain connected by visiting our websites, where a plethora of updates pertaining to school events and programs await. Moreover, do join us on our social media platforms—Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram—where our journey unfolds in real time.

This juncture in the annals of CGLA and MEHP is marked by excitement and promise. We stand united under the banner of “Two Schools, One Vision, and Better Together.”

With the utmost respect and anticipation,

Dr. Elaine Swafford Chief Executive Officer | CGLA & MEHP

MONTESSORI ELEMENTARY AT HIGHLAND PARK

Montessori Elementary at Highland Park cultivates ambitious, fearless learners through intellectuallystimulating, interactive experiences that awaken curiosity, nurture advanced thinking, and promote independence.

Year Founded: 2021

Grade Levels: PreK3-5th

Enrollment: 351

Low-income Families: +90%

Teacher to Student Ratio: 12:1

CHATTANOOGA GIRLS LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

CGLA provides girls and young women with a rigorous college preparatory education focused on science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math in a supportive environment that nurtures self confidence, inspires leadership, encourages critical thinking, and promotes academic excellence.

Year Founded: 2009

Grade Levels: 6th - 12th

Enrollment: 350

Low-income Families: +90%

ACT SCORES: ALL STUDENTS

ACT SCORES: ECONOMICALLY DISADVANTAGED

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WHY MONTESSORI

The Montessori Method is a research-based educational blueprint for cultivating confident, agile thinkers that allows children to independently discover and problem solve. Because children are inherently curious, the Montessori Method creates a stimulating, nurturing academic environment that encourages young learners to confidently pursue a journey of discovery.

NEIGHBORING CGLA

Located in the heart of Highland Park, MEHP serves families from all backgrounds and provides a dynamic participatory environment that integrates Montessori childhood education with STEAM experiential learning.

MEHP was designed to prepare students as young as 3 years old for academic success from preK all the way through graduation. This budding school serves as a feeder for CGLA and other area middle and high schools, ensuring student preparation and growth for advanced academic environments.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

As part of the Montessori Method, students go beyond the academic basics experienced in a traditional classroom. In addition to setting a foundation for traditional subjects, students learn practical life skills, the arts, STEM, movement and physical education, and more that support their academic growth and future success.

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Boys & Girls Club: After-school enrichment and tutoring to instill reading and math skills, bolster social-emotional development, and strengthen relationship-building skills

Junior League: Quarterly reading nights and in-classroom engagements throughout the year

Parent Engagement: Family sessions to learn about the strength of the Montessori Method, how to support students at home, and how the unique learning environment will help students thrive in and outside the classroom

Parent Teacher Organization: A poinsettia fundraiser to contribute significant funds to the school

Annual Impact Report 22-23

A OF LEARNERS. Communiity.

SHARON W. | PARENT OF CGLA GRADUATE

CGLA is an awesome school. They truly want what’s best for our girls. The opportunities are limitless that they provide. Preparing them for the real world. The educators give all of themselves and more when it comes to our girls excelling. The go aboove and beyond the call of duty.

SHADRINA B. | PARENT OF MEHP STUDENT

Even in its short time of being being open, our family has come to love the holistic approach to education taken by MEHP. The Montessori curriculum has created a curiosity within our son and encourages him to ask questions, dig deeper, and become his own instructional guide.

JUANITA L. | SCHOOL SUPPORTER

Training leaders and lightening rods for the world of tomorrow; so encouraging to watch.

DISCOVER CGLA

A FOUNDATION OF SUCCESS

Building on our history of academic growth, CGLA continues to grow and complete our vision of developing girls as leaders. The data supports this commitment as we continue to push students to achieve at high levels.

CGLA leaders have cemented mentoring relationships as a foundation of support for our students. Through peerto-peer and traditional mentoring opportunities, students develop strong relationships that enable them to overcome adversity, build critical life skills, and persevere on their academic path.

Workplace mentoring gives students practice experiences set in the workplace to foster curiosity, inspire career paths, and prepare them for college advancement and careers. Through multiyear partnerships with organizations such as Hutton and BlueCross BlueShield TN, more than 150 students found support through workplace mentoring.

PREPARED FOR A BRIGHTER TOMORROW RECOGNITIONS

• 100% GRADUATION RATE

• 95% RATE OF COLLEGE ATTENDANCE

• 2ND RANKED HIGH SCHOOL IN CHATTANOOGA (US NEWS)

• TVAAS LEVEL 5 SCHOOL 8 OF THE LAST 12 YEARS

• TENNESSEE STEM SCHOOL DESIGNATION

• CHAMPION CHARTER SCHOOL AWARD (2019)

• CHANGEMAKER AWARD (2023)

• 6 YEAR TN REWARD SCHOOL

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Athletics

On the court, field, and track, CGLA athletes develop and excel their skills. CGLA offers middle and high school teams for basketball, soccer, softball, track & field, and volleyball.

Choir, Music & Art

Students find their creative expression in the arts, including award-winning choirs, visual arts classes, and music.

Mustang Leadership Partners

This hands-on equestrian program helps students develop critical life skills, confidence, respect, and cooperation.

STEM Program

From the classes to after-school programs, STEM and scientific inquiry is at the core of CGLA. Students participate in design challenges, robotic teams, and math and science Olympiad teams.

Since the inception of CGLA, our campus has continued to evolve and grow to accommodate our growing academic and extracurricular programming. Our academic and athletic spaces have expanded exponentially, with building additions and renovations, including the expansion of our library and cafeteria, additional classrooms, and the gymnasium.

OUR CAMPUS MONTESSORI MADE

The idea of establishing an elementary school to support CGLA was set in the school’s 2014 strategic planning process. Cofounder Dr. Sue Anne Wells and CEO Elaine Swafford embarked on a capital campaign amid the COVID-19 pandemic to press forward with what they knew to be a life-changing opportunity for students who could otherwise not afford a Montessori education.

In August 2021, leaders of Montessori Elementary at Highland Park opened the doors of a dream realized—the new elementary school building, the result of that capital campaign started in an effort to reach students of all backgrounds before they entered sixth grade.

BLUECROSS HEALTHY PLACE

In partnership with BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, in May 2021 community and school leaders celebrated the completion of the BlueCross Healthy Place at Highland Park, an outdoor space on the campus of CGLA and MEHP that provides a dynamic space for students to move, thrive, and play.

This project was made possible by a $5 million investment from the BlueCross BlueShield Foundation, and the space is shared by MEHP, CGLA, Chattanooga Prep, and the Highland Park community members.

MADE BY OUR SUPPORTERSPossible

We stand at a pivotal moment in our journey, and we owe much of this remarkable progress to you - our steadfast supporters who have fueled the realization of “Two Schools, One Vision, Better Together.” Over the past three school years, your unwavering commitment has transformed dreams into reality, inspiring change that’s nothing short of astounding.

The impact of your dedication is undeniable. As we welcome incoming 6th graders from Montessori Elementary at Highland Park to Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy, we witness their seamless transition into our rigorous college preparatory model. This synergy ensures they’re equipped to embrace the challenges ahead. In the future we will no longer see students entering middle school performing two grades below average; instead, we will welcome a new middle school class prepared for the high standards set from day one.

Yet, the journey continues, and your continued support is vital. Our commitment over the past 14 years has come at a cost, and we are compelled to reach further, soar higher. The challenges ahead beckon us, but they are challenges we can conquer with your partnership. Our aspirations require financial sustenance, and it’s in this spirit that we humbly request your support.

The Path Forward

1. Investing in Exceptional Educators

2. Enriching Futures through Workplace Mentoring

3. Empowering through Montessori Excellence

4. Starting Early for Lifelong Success

5. Nurturing through Necessities

Your giving and sacrifice have been the pillars of our journey. As we seek to ask more of ourselves, we also humbly ask more of you. Join us in shaping a brighter tomorrow, a tomorrow where “Two Schools, One Vision, Better Together” becomes the narrative of achievement, opportunity, and excellence