Vertex Partnership Academies
Background
Vertex Partnership Academies is a virtues-based, International Baccalaureate (IB) public charter high school network established in 2019. The inaugural campus opened in the Soundview section of the Bronx, New York, in 2022. The institution's mission is to develop virtuous high school graduates equipped with the habits, knowledge, and personal agency necessary to lead self-determined, purposeful lives as American and global citizens. Guided by the four cardinal virtues—Courage, Justice, Temperance, and Wisdom—Vertex emphasizes character development alongside academic excellence.
Key Strategic Focus
Vertex Partnership Academies offers a comprehensive IB curriculum, positioning itself as an "IB For All" school. All students engage in the IB Middle Years Program during 9th and 10th grades, followed by a choice between the IB Diploma Program or the IB Careers Program in 11th and 12th grades. This approach ensures that every student receives a rigorous education tailored to their post-secondary aspirations, whether they aim for higher education or direct entry into the workforce.
Financials and Funding
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Vertex Partnership Academies has demonstrated financial growth since its inception. In the fiscal year ending June 2023, the organization reported total revenues of $2,200,086 and expenses of $2,170,906, resulting in a net income of $29,180. Total assets stood at $5,595,498, with liabilities of $3,264,320, leading to net assets of $2,331,178.
The institution has secured funding from notable entities, including the Charter School Growth Fund and the Beth and Ravenel Curry Foundation, each contributing $250,000. These funds are allocated to support the school's operational needs and program development.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Vertex Partnership Academies integrates advanced educational technologies to enhance learning outcomes. The school employs platforms such as Microsoft Outlook for communication and Quali for cloud-based solutions, facilitating efficient operations and collaboration among staff and students.
Leadership Team
- Ian Rowe, Founder and Chief Executive Officer
- Former CEO of Public Prep, a network of public charter schools in New York City
- Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute
- Author of "Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for All Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover Their Pathway to Power"
- Holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BS in Computer Science Engineering from Cornell University
- Brian Giglio, Head of School
- Nearly two decades of experience in urban public schools
- Former Academic Director and Principal within the Explore Schools Charter Network
- Holds an undergraduate degree in political science and two master's degrees in secondary education and urban education leadership
- Joyanet Mangual, Founding Principal
- Over a decade of experience in education, specializing in special education
- Former founding teacher and leader in charter schools since 2015
- Holds an undergraduate degree in psychology and a master's degree in education
- Michael Farkosh, Director of Humanities
- Began career as a high school English teacher in 2006
- Former Director of Humanities for a network of schools
- Holds an undergraduate degree in political science and two master's degrees in secondary education and urban education leadership
- Patria Rodriguez, Director of Operations
- Extensive experience in charter schools in the Bronx and Harlem
- Former Central Operations Manager supporting a network of 23 schools
- Pursued a degree in Child Psychology at Bronx Community College
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The charter school sector in New York City is highly competitive, with numerous institutions striving to provide quality education to underserved communities. The demand for high-performing charter schools continues to grow, driven by the need for alternatives to traditional public schools, especially in areas with historically low educational outcomes.
Competitor Analysis
- Brilla College Preparatory Charter Schools
- Focus: Character-based education with a classical curriculum
- Notable Achievement: Consistent high performance in state assessments
- Public Prep
- Focus: Single-sex education with a rigorous academic program
- Notable Achievement: High college acceptance rates among graduates
Both institutions share a commitment to character development and academic excellence, positioning them as key competitors in the charter school landscape.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Vertex Partnership Academies has established partnerships with Brilla College Prep and Public Prep, offering guaranteed seats to their 8th-grade graduates. This collaboration ensures a seamless transition for students from middle to high school within a consistent educational framework.
Operational Insights
Vertex's emphasis on the IB curriculum and virtues-based education differentiates it from competitors. The school's strategic location in the Bronx addresses the critical need for quality education in underserved communities, enhancing its market position.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, Vertex Partnership Academies aims to expand its network of IB public charter high schools, replicating its successful model in other high-need areas.
