CHARLOTTE – A.C.E. Academy is commemorating 10 years of academic and programmatic achievements this week with a private gala.
The public, tuition-free K-8 charter school is dedicated to academics, character and entrepreneurship. It was founded in 2014 by entrepreneurs, including Laila Minott, Shawn Smalls and Shannon Martin.
The school’s curriculum and summer camps focus on college preparation and entrepreneurship. It is most known for its Young Moguls club which has allowed students to create small businesses that have earned more than $30,000 to date.
“We are so excited and proud of our 10 years of consistent growth,” Superintendent Laila Minott said. “We have had the opportunity to matriculate very talented students, to be supported by phenomenal educators, and have expanded our school’s resources and programs since opening our doors.”
Since its inception, A.C.E. Academy has prided itself on equipping students from all backgrounds to succeed in college and career by driving academic excellence, developing strong character and instilling an entrepreneurial mindset. It educated over 450 students from across the Charlotte area this academic year.
Its specialized programs include Marching into Manhood, Big Dreamers and Little Legacy, peer mentorship and character education. Current programs also encompass athletics, foreign language instruction, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education, mentorship opportunities and book clubs.
“We step into our next decade with ambitious goals for the future,” Minott said. “With the support of the community, we hope to expand our facility by adding additional classrooms, a state-of-the-art gymnasium, and a preschool to ensure early learning is available to families in the community we serve. We also plan to expand our performing arts program and enhance our academically gifted program.”