Within Phoenix Academy, two former students turned employees show how community and belonging play crucial roles in students' success. Jaden and Jamie's journeys from students to staff members testify to this unique school's impact on students.
"Phoenix Academy is the only school where I felt I was making progress; I had opportunities that made me feel successful," says former Phoenix student and current employee Jaden. Phoenix Academy is a setting 4 special education site that provides programming for students with disabilities and intense mental health and behavioral needs. Programming is designed to meet the mental health, behavioral, and academic needs of students in grades K-12.
"Phoenix has staff that cared about me. They took the time to talk to me and actually get to know me,” Jaden continues. “I was also able to get staff support academically. The work of the staff inspired me. They showed me a lot of passion and faith in me, and I want to bring that to the kids now.” Jaden believes being a former Phoenix student allows him to easily relate to current students and show them what they can overcome. “Phoenix saved me! I don't know where I'd be today without Phoenix," he says.
In the heart of Phoenix Academy, the stories of Jaden and Jamie stand as living proof that this institution is more than just a school; it's a place of transformation, a sanctuary of belonging, and a beacon of hope. Their journeys from students to staff members exemplify the profound impact this unique educational community can have on its students. At Phoenix, they found not only education but a second family, a place where they were valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.
"The Phoenix staff are funny, family-oriented, supportive, involved, and best of all, they love each of our students,” says former Phoenix student and current employee Jamie. “Working at Phoenix Academy is not for the weak, but it's rewarding. It's helping me become the person I am today. Without Phoenix, I don't know where I would be. It was the best decision to come here as a student and now to work here and be a part of what made me who I am.”
Rochester Phoenix Academy fosters and promotes personal and academic growth for all students by establishing high academic and social expectations for individual student involvement within the global community.
"It is very inspirational to our students, staff, and families to have former students working at Phoenix Academy," says Phoenix Academy Principal Robert Scripture.
Phoenix Academy is not just a place of learning; it's a place where lives are changed, futures are shaped, and dreams are ignited. Jaden and Jamie are living proof that within the walls of this unique school, the Phoenix rises, carrying with it the potential for every student to soar to new heights. We are proud to have Phoenix Academy as a part of RPS and thankful for the work that are doing to be a catalyst of transformation and for creating a community where students truly find themselves and their paths to success.