Arlington Classics Academy

Background

Arlington Classics Academy (ACA) is a tuition-free, open-enrollment public charter school located in Arlington, Texas. Established in 1999, ACA serves students from Kindergarten through 8th grade, emphasizing a classical education approach with a special focus on Western civilization. The academy's mission is to equip a diverse student body with a comprehensive education, fostering a deep understanding of the origins of liberty and promoting moral leadership through high academic instruction and behavioral expectations.

Key Strategic Focus

ACA is committed to providing a rigorous college preparatory education through an advanced academics program. The curriculum is designed to challenge students, encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills. The academy offers a variety of enrichment opportunities, including languages, technology, entrepreneurship, choir, band, theater, and athletics. Spanish language instruction begins in Kindergarten, reflecting the school's dedication to comprehensive education.

Financials and Funding

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ACA operates primarily on state funding and contributions. For the fiscal year ending August 2023, the academy reported total revenue of $16.6 million and expenses of $16.3 million, resulting in a net income of $349,038. The majority of revenue (91.4%) comes from contributions, with program services and investment income comprising the remainder. Total assets were reported at $32.6 million, with liabilities of $22.3 million, leading to net assets of $10.4 million.

Pipeline Development

ACA continually evaluates and enhances its educational programs to meet the evolving needs of its student body. The academy's strategic goals include ensuring all students read on or above grade level by the end of 3rd grade, providing an accelerated curriculum to increase opportunities for college or career-specific courses during high school, and maintaining high academic standards to ensure college readiness.

Technological Platform and Innovation

ACA integrates technology into its curriculum to enhance learning experiences. The academy utilizes the NWEA Measure of Academic Progress (MAP) assessment to monitor student progress and inform instruction. Additionally, ACA employs a Professional Learning Community model for staff development, where teachers collaborate to evaluate effective practices and disaggregate data to inform instruction.

Leadership Team

Craig Sims: Executive Director of Schools. Compensation: $165,502.

Greyden Barnett: Director of Human Resources. Compensation: $104,202.

Edna Ramsey: Director. Compensation: $0.

Tania Cotter: Secretary. Compensation: $0.

Deborah Sterba: Director. Compensation: $0.

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within ACA's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The charter school sector in Texas is competitive, with numerous institutions offering specialized curricula to attract diverse student populations. ACA's emphasis on classical education and Western civilization distinguishes it within this landscape.

Competitor Analysis

ACA's primary competitors include other charter and private schools in the Arlington area, such as Grace Preparatory Academy and St. Paul's Preparatory Academy.

Grace Preparatory Academy: A private, college-preparatory Christian school offering programs from Kindergarten through 12th grade. Established in 1992, it emphasizes a university-model education.

St. Paul's Preparatory Academy: A private Christian school serving early childhood through 12th grade, founded in 1988.

These institutions offer alternative educational models, catering to families seeking faith-based or university-model education.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

ACA actively engages with parents and the community to foster a collaborative educational environment. The academy hosts family-focused enrichment events such as the Griffin Picnic, Science Night at the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, College Day, and visits to the Arlington Art Museum. These initiatives strengthen community ties and enhance the educational experience.

Operational Insights

ACA's strategic considerations include maintaining high academic standards, fostering a safe and inclusive environment, and promoting parental involvement. The academy's classical education approach and focus on Western civilization provide a unique value proposition in the competitive educational landscape.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

ACA aims to expand its reach and impact by continually enhancing its curriculum, integrating innovative teaching methodologies, and strengthening community partnerships. The academy's commitment to high academic and behavioral standards positions it well to adapt to evolving educational demands and to prepare students for future academic and career success.