The mission of the Educational Empowerment Group is to promote knowledge, wisdom and understanding to all stakeholders that empowers success in our global society.
Vision
The vision of the Educational Empowerment Group is to elevate the experience for students and stakeholders by positively changing the landscape of charter school education.
A Message from the CEO
As we embrace a new academic year, I am filled with great pride and hope. The work you do every single day is nothing short of extraordinary. You are the architects of our students’ futures, the steady hands that guide them through challenges, and the champions who celebrate their every success.
This year, let’s put our training to work and remember the incredible power we hold. Our classrooms are not just rooms; they are hubs of innovation, discovery and growth. You have the unique ability to turn a simple lesson into a life-changing moment, to transform a discouraged student into a confident learner and to ignite a passion that lasts a lifetime.
I know the path ahead is not always easy. The challenges of education are real and demanding. Yet, I have unwavering faith in your resilience and commitment. Remember why you chose this profession: to make a difference in the lives of our students. The seeds of knowledge and kindness you plant today will blossom into a brighter world tomorrow.
Thank you for your tireless dedication, your passion and your belief in every child. Let’s make this a year of profound impact, where we inspire not only our students but each other. I am honored to stand alongside you in this noble journey.
Wendy Rydarowicz
EEG Founder
Celebrating the EleVate Education Summit
The EleVate Education Summit was more than an event; it was a powerful experience! We were energized by the poignant words of keynote speaker Shaka Senghor, enlightened by targeted professional development sessions and inspired by the incredible dedication of our very own EEG team members.
It is with immense pride that we salute the individuals and schools who received special recognition for their outstanding contributions.
Marketing Awards
Marketing Quadrant Lead of the Year – Brooke Yost
Marketing Coordinator of the Year – Danyale “Dani” Duncan
Marketing Core Team Leaders of the Year – Abby Lekas & Kevin Pahlau
School Team Awards
Custodian of the Year
K-8 Schools: Jeffrey Ross, Beacon Academy
High Schools: Adonijah Benton, Riverscape Career Tech High School
High Schools:Melissa Ford, Ohio Construction Academy
Instructional Aide of the Year
K-8 Schools:Nickie Bowles, South Side Academy
High Schools:Sherrie Lann, The Steel Academy
Intervention Specialist of the Year
K-8 Schools:Adam Smith, Multiple Schools
High Schools:John Hayden, Stark High School
Teacher of the Year
K-8 Schools: Cynthia Blade, Main Preparatory Academy & Tiana Jones, Bridge Gate Elementary School
High Schools:Ayereon White, Riverscape Career Tech High School
Academic Coach of the Year
K-8 Schools:Amy Fedele-Russo, South Side Academy
High Schools:Sarah Smith, Empowered Tech High School
Dean of Students of the Year
K-8 Schools: Joshua Decatur, Innovation Academy West
High Schools: Ashley Salapack, Stark High School & Dr. DeShannon Butler, Ohio Construction Academy
Top Honors
Founder’s Award (Employee of the Year)
K-8 Schools:Joseph Nagelhout, Cincinnati Technology Academy & Zena Vaughn, Cincinnati Achievement Academy
High Schools: Renee Holt, The Steel Academy & Cherrel’ Barrow, Engage High School
Most Improved School
K-8 Schools: South Side Academy
High Schools:CASTLE High School, East Campus
School of the Year
K-8 Schools: Innovation Academy West
High Schools:CASTLE High School, Parma Campus
Principals of the Year
K-8 Schools: Monica Jones,Innovation Academy West
High Schools: Joseph Weisend, Liberty Preparatory School
Celebrating a Decade of Excellence
We extend a special congratulations to our 10-Year Award winners, an exceptional group of EEG team members who have reached a remarkable milestone. Their loyalty and dedication are a testament to the incredible positive impact they have made on our company’s culture and mission. Thank you for a decade of excellence!
Jennifer Allfrey
Nickie Boles
Tina Brewer-Davenport
Stephanie Groscost
Jerry Hester
Kristin Middendorf
Elaina Pierce
Leida Shuluga
Katherine Travers
Congratulations to all award winners!
A Niche for Every Learner
Did you know that this year, all of our K-8 schools offers a unique and focused learning experience? We are challenging the practice of a “one-size-fits-all” approach to education. Our K-8 schools are intentionally evolving to meet the needs of all students, which is why each of our schools provides a specific niche that captivates students and brings learning to life.
Our dedicated educators are challenged to go beyond traditional methods, integrating STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) into every lesson. Students are not just memorizing facts; they are empowered to think critically and solve real-world problems. This immersive experience sparks a genuine love of learning that lasts a lifetime. This is how our K-8 schools are truly Elevating the Experience!
Discover the unique focus of each of our K-8 schools:
The Bessie Sherrod-Price Preparatory Academy – Music
Beacon Academy – Art and Community
Bridge Gate Elementary School – Art
Cincinnati Achievement Academy – Sports
Cincinnati Technology Academy – Technology
Empowered by the Arts Academy – Art
East Bridge Academy of Excellence – Sports
Innovation Academy West – Horticulture
Miami Valley Academies – Aviation
Main Preparatory Academy – Sports
Middlebury Academy – Technology and Art
South Side Academy – All components of STEAM
This specialized approach to education is not just a choice, but it is a valuable investment in the future of our students, igniting their passion and potential.
Launching Careers, Elevating Futures
With the same passion and intensity as our K-8 schools, our high schools are preparing students for what’s next through a powerful focus on Career Technical Education (CTE). We believe education should lead to opportunity, and our instructors are doing just that by challenging our students academically while putting them on the fast track to success through hands-on career exploration.
Our comprehensive career readiness program is designed to empower every student with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed in the workforce.
We are proud to offer a full-circle approach that includes:
Expert Career Advising – Every student works with a certified career advisor on a personalized plan. With activities like our bi-annual Career Week, we make career exploration an integral part of their journey from day one.
Powerful Career-Based Intervention (CBI) – Through our CBI courses, students develop professional skills, earn credits, and gain real-world experience, preparing them for the Ohio Means Jobs Career Readiness Seal.
Hands-On Career Tech Programs – Our students have the opportunity to graduate with a valuable industry-recognized credential in high-demand fields like Health Science (STNA), Construction (NCCER), and Leadership (Rise Up).
Professional Certifications – We are also enhancing our programs with vital training in OSHA 10, CPR Certification, and even Driver’s Ed at select schools, ensuring our students are ready for any path they choose.
This commitment ensures our students graduate not just with a diploma, but with a plan and the skills to succeed in a career they love.
School News
Shout Out to the Perfect Partner!
Miami Valley Academies – Ms. Chivers, the 3rd Grade Teacher at MVA, developed the perfect partnership with 5 Below this summer! 5 Below provided a generous donation of supplies to MVA. Their kindness and support helped MVA’s students start the year off prepared and excited to learn.
Where Math and Science Build Futures
Riverscape Career Tech High School – The instructors are elevating education beyond the textbook. Our students are engaging in hands-on construction projects where they apply core subjects to real-world challenges. From calculating angles to understanding structural physics, they are not just learning theory; they are building skills that will last a lifetime. This is where academic concepts come to life, making learning both practical and exhilarating.
This interactive approach ensures our students are prepared not just for exams, but for successful careers and a future they can build with their own hands.
Innovation in 3D: Bringing Logos to Life
South Side Academy – Students are transforming design with cutting-edge technology by taking the EEG logo from a simple image to a tangible, 3D masterpiece. This incredible process uses AI to render a design, which is then imported and brought to life using their state-of-the-art 3D printer.
This hands-on project is teaching students to bridge the gap between digital creativity and physical reality. This exciting project is a perfect example of how our schools are merging art and technology to prepare students for the future of design and engineering.
Perfect Attendance? You’re “In the Game!”
Akron Career Tech High School – ACT recently celebrated students who demonstrated unwavering dedication with perfect attendance. To honor their commitment, Principal Williams held a special “Stay in the Game” raffle.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Cleveland Browns, our students had the chance to win amazing prizes and rewards. It was a huge success and a great way to show that hard work and consistency truly pay off.
A huge thank you to the Cleveland Browns for supporting our students and helping us make a memorable event!
A September Guide to Preparedness
September is National Preparedness Month, a perfect time to ensure you and your family are ready for any emergency. While the thought of a disaster can be unsettling, having a plan provides peace of mind.
This month’s “Live Well, Work Well” newsletter is your guide to feeling secure. We’re covering tips for handling emergencies, managing the emotional stress of the fall transition, and providing some delicious seasonal recipes.
We hope this month empowers you to prepare for the unexpected and take care of your emotional well-being. Click on the tab below for more details.
Volume 36 | September 2025 EEG News & UpdatesMissionThe mission of the Educational Empowerment Group is to promote knowledge, wisdom and understanding to all stakeholders…
