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
Welcome to August and the start of the 2026–2027 school year! As classrooms transform into stations of creativity, we enter this academic year with a clear, shared mission: to start strong, stay focused and exceed our student recruitment and enrollment goals.
Meeting these enrollment goals is a vital act of community outreach. We strive to ensure that every household searching for a supportive school environment and a true sense of belonging discovers an open door alongside a team ready to believe in them.
As principals, teachers and front-line staff, you are the heartbeat of our network, and the unstoppable positivity we set today will dictate the culture of our classrooms tomorrow. Let us launch this year with relentless optimism, knowing that you help to shape our students’ futures. Thank you for your tireless dedication! Let’s make this our most inspiring, impactful chapter yet!
With deep gratitude and respect,
Wendy Rydarowicz
EEG Founder
The Power of Resilience
Every success story begins with a turning point. For many students within the EEG network, that moment arrived when they decided that a difficult past would not dictate their future. Walking through the doors of an EEG school often meant carrying the heavy weight of being credit-deficient, feeling isolated and searching for a place to truly belong.
Students who entered our doors found more than just a classroom; they found a school family. It takes immense courage to pick up the pieces after a disheartening high school experience, yet these students chose to step forward, fueled by the conviction that their stories were far from over.
Throughout the 2025–2026 school year, our principals and teachers stood firmly on the front lines, doing what they do best: imparting inspiration, motivation and empowerment. They saw the hidden potential in every discouraged student, acting as the vital spark needed to reignite their drive to succeed. That dedication culminated in a powerful celebration of resilience.
This past June, 274 incredible students officially crossed the graduation stage, earning their high school diplomas and stepping out into the world equipped with industry credentials and career skills needed to stay ahead of the pack. These graduates soared above baseline requirements, earning a remarkable array of specialized credentials and honors across the network.
238 students earned Industry-Recognized Credential Seals.
248 students acquired OhioMeansJobs Seals.
100 students received Citizenship Seals.
55 students received Community Engagement Seals.
These numbers represent renewed hope, restored confidence and futures reclaimed. From building career-ready skills to stepping up as engaged citizens and community leaders, these 274 graduates have proven that where you start does not define where you finish.
The Educational Empowerment Group remains steadfast in its mission to change lives, one student at a time, and today, these graduates stand ready to change the world.
Making a Difference
Southern Ohio Career Academy – Most reflective educators and staff members occasionally asks themselves the same quiet question: Are we truly making a difference? For the dedicated team at Southern Ohio Career Academy (SOCA), that question was recently answered in the most heartwarming way possible.
A proud SOCA graduate took a moment to reflect on her journey, looking back at her time to offer a message of profound reassurance to the staff who helped guide her. Her heartfelt social media post served as a moving reminder of the lasting bonds formed within the school walls and the ripples of change that education creates.
Taking to her post, she shared the impact that the SOCA staff had on her life, proving that the moments of encouragement and the unwavering belief in students never go unnoticed. For the educators at Southern Ohio Career Academy, it was the ultimate reminder of why they do what they do: shaping futures, one student at a time.
Planting Seeds of the Future
South Side Academy – Education is most powerful when it steps outside the classroom walls and takes root in the real world. For the students of South Side Academy, the 2025–2026 academic year blossomed into an unforgettable journey of discovery. It proved that young minds do not merely learn about the future, but instead possess the power to plant it.
A collaborative partnership during the 2025–2026 school year between Youngstown State University’s College of STEM and South Side Academy provided K-8 students with hands-on, real-world STEAM learning experiences. By participating in classroom activities, field trips, and the creation of a pollinator garden at the Williamson Innovation Park, students explored environmental stewardship, learned about horticulture careers, and developed critical problem-solving skills. South Side even made the news! Check out the story.
A Decade of Impact
Beacon Academy – A decade of empowering students and strengthening the local community was met with joy, generosity and celebration, as Beacon Academy marked its 10th anniversary with a vibrant neighborhood event.
Drawing a crowd of 250 to 300 community members, the milestone celebration transformed the school into a hub of connection and support, powered by dedicated staff and a remarkable network of local partners.
The anniversary celebration was defined by an incredible outpouring of resources and treats for local families, thanks to a collaborative effort from community organizations near and far. Guests enjoyed free ice cream samples from Two Scoops, a refreshing lemonade stand hosted by Red Robin, and popcorn provided by Stark High School. Walmart further sweetened the day by donating and handing out fresh water, cookies and cupcakes.
Canton for All People funded 600 hot dogs and the necessary condiments, while also rolling up their sleeves to grill for the attendees. TizzleCutz brought high-energy community care, deploying two professional barbers to provide completely free haircuts.
Jackson Bear Hugs transformed the entire gymnasium into a resource wonderland, offering a selection of free clothing, toys, and home decor. These items were complemented by an extensive collection of Walmart donations that Beacon Academy staff had thoughtfully gathered over the past year. KONA Ice was also on hand, adding to the festive atmosphere with cooling treats for all.
Anchored by wonderful staff and supported by a compassionate community, the 10th-anniversary celebration honored a decade of educational excellence while serving as a powerful testament to the bonds Beacon Academy has built. For ten years, the school has been a pillar of the community, and this celebration proved that the best is yet to come.
Savor the Season of Wellness
As we navigate the warm days and festive nights of August, this month’s wellness newsletter is packed with everything you need to feel your absolute best. Whether you are looking to beat the summer heat with a cooler bedroom routine for better sleep, planning ahead to stay safe and hydrated at local fairs and festivals, or discovering the latest FDA-approved sunscreen news, we have you covered. Dive into the August wellness issues below!
Volume 46 | August 2026 EEG News & UpdatesMissionThe mission of the Educational Empowerment Group is to promote knowledge, wisdom and understanding to all stakeholders…
