Ithica Elementary School cut the ribbon on its new Early Learning Academy on Wednesday, September 2, celebrating the third early learning academy ribbon cutting for Carroll County Schools over the past week.
Ithica Elementary's Pre-K and Kindergarten areas have been transformed into the new Early Learning Academy, a place where traditional foundational instruction for early learners intersects with an experiential learning adventure including discovery-based learning spaces like the new Imagination Station and inquiry-based learning strategies.
After a welcome from Principal Angela Hopewell, Kindergarten Teacher Michelle Hamrick explained how faculty have totally redesigned the early learning curriculum to connect lessons to a central topic that makes learning meaningful to students, with student experiences based on readiness. The academy model is built around the framework of "Wonder. Explore. Create." and guided by feedback from parent focus groups in the community. Foundational learning is enhanced with cross-curricular projects and engaging excursions that demonstrate classroom lessons in the real world.
Following remarks from Superintendent Dr. Jessica Ainsworth who expounded on the districtwide emphasis, Ithica's earliest learners helped cut the ribbon and lead guests on a hands-on tour of newly renovated spaces that received aesthetic and safety upgrades including new flooring and lighting in hallways and classrooms, age-specific branding and signage and enhanced security features to create a modern, secure academy feel.
Last Friday, Sand Hill cut the ribbon on its Early Learning Academy, and Central Elementary did the same on Tuesday. Carroll County plans to expand the academy model to all 12 district elementary schools over the next two school years.
Carroll County Schools is prioritizing our youngest learners because we recognize the importance of foundations. We’re not just changing instruction, we are working hard to create a premier educational destination where a student’s curiosity can empower learning — a place where Wonder Leads the Way.
