Concord Academy has been serving students with special needs in grades 6 through 12 since 1983. Born out of the belief in offering exceptional programs for exceptional students, Concord Academy was established to provide the best education and environment for students’ growth in all aspects of development including specialized academic instruction, social skills and vocational guidance. The private school’s mission is simple, “to educate students with disabilities to reach their personal bests” and having served over 800 students to date with 91% of all graduates earning a high school diploma, enrolling in community colleges, universities, vocational-technical schools and productive employment, Concord Academy is doing just that.
Some of the things that make Concord Academy so successful include 1) their small class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios, 2) their ability to challenge students to reach their personal best in all areas by presenting them with achievable goals, thereby building self-esteem and confidence, as well as 3) their ability to teach the “whole child” by providing social, emotional, pre-vocational, transitional as well as academic guidance just to name a few. In addition to these unique offerings, Concord Academy also has its senior students participate in an un-paid internship program where they partner with businesses in the community to gain hands-on work experience.
Behind every successful student is a great teacher and Concord Academy is no exception. “All teachers are certified in special education and really do such a great job unlocking the key to learning for each individual student. The staff is so good about working with the students, getting them to believe in themselves and celebrating those moments and milestones with them. They really help them to be the best that they can be” comments Special Event Director, Nan Miller.
A school of Concord Academy’s caliber cannot exist on tuition alone. Tuition covers only 75% of the actual costs of a Concord Academy education. Therefore, the 501(c)3 nonprofit must rely on other sources, such as generous donors, to obtain the remaining funds needed to operate the school and educate its students. One way to get involved is by participating in Concord Academy’s 3rd Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, September 21st at TPC Southwind. Individuals can register as a single golfer or bring along three friends to participate as a foursome. Proper safety procedures will be followed. Additionally, businesses may show their support by sponsoring the tournament on a variety of levels, ranging from Hole Sponsor at $150 to Presenting Sponsor at $5,000. TPC Southwind is no stranger to charity golf tournaments as it’s where the pros play year after year at the World Golf Championships – FedEx St. Jude Invitational. Golfers participating in Concord Academy’s tournament will have the opportunity to get a feel for what the pros experience by golfing in this year’s tournament! Those who want to be on the green and show their support but are not interested in golfing also have the ability to be involved as a volunteer. To express interest in volunteering at this year’s tournament contact Special Event Coordinator, Nan Miller at NMiller@concord-academy.org.
To learn more about Concord Academy visit their website at concord-academy.org or give them a call at 901-682-3115.
