Elite Academic Academy Featured Cover Story In The Enterprise World Magazine, Highlights Personalized, Student-Centered Model
California public charter network credits flexibility, academic rigor, and human connection for measurable gains in student achievement
Elite Academic Academy www.eliteacademic.com, a California public charter school network serving TK–12 students through personalized, flex-based learning models, is the subject of a cover story in the September 2026 edition of The Enterprise World. The feature, "Elite Academic Academy: Shaping a More Personalized Future of Learning," profiles the network's student-first approach under CEO Ashlea Kirkland-Haynes. The article highlights how Elite pairs flexibility with academic accountability.
Built Around the Student
Founded in 2018 by experienced educators, Elite set out to give families real choice without sacrificing credentialed teachers, rigorous standards, or meaningful support. "Elite Academic Academy was built because the world was changing faster than the traditional model of education," said Ashlea Kirkland-Haynes, CEO of Elite Academic Academy. She brings 20 years of TK–12 leadership to the role, including prior service as Elite's Director of Virtual Education and Chief Student Development Officer.
One Mission, Three Pathways
Elite delivers its program through three learning models. The Homeschool Academy partners parents with Elite educators. The Virtual Academy offers a fully online, self-paced experience for Grades 6–12. The Flex Academy blends live virtual sessions with offline curriculum. All three are backed by California-credentialed teachers, a guaranteed and viable curriculum, and individualized academic planning. Together they serve students pursuing accelerated paths, athletes and performers, English learners, socioeconomically disadvantaged students, and others who do not find a suitable fit in a traditional setting.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Elite offers Career Technical Education pathways in healthcare, marketing, architecture, cybersecurity, and education. It became California's first non-classroom-based program to earn an official HOSA chapter, and it is expanding teacher-led immersive learning through partnerships with Meta and Knoxlabs. "Our responsibility is to provide the flexibility students need, the academic excellence they deserve," said Kirkland-Haynes, describing the support that helps students move confidently toward their futures.
A Portrait of a Learner
Guiding every learning decision is Elite's Portrait of a Learner, centered on the Six C's: Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, Curiosity, and Compassion. Kirkland-Haynes emphasized that the framework reaches beyond academics. "Our job as educators is bigger than preparing students to pass a test," she added, noting that the Six C's are meant to equip students to adapt, connect with others, keep learning, and confidently navigate an unpredictable future. The goal is for graduates to be ready not only for college or careers, but for life.
Looking Ahead
Elite plans to deepen collaborations with universities, healthcare systems, businesses, and nonprofits, and to expand its thoughtful use of artificial intelligence and virtual reality. "The future of education is innovative, but we must remain deeply human as well," said Kirkland-Haynes.
To read the full cover story, visit The Enterprise World at https://theenterpriseworld.com/elite-academic-academy-ashlea-haynes/
About Elite Academic Academy
Founded in 2018, Elite Academic Academy is a California public charter school network offering homeschool, virtual, flex, and independent study programs for TK–12 students. Rooted in personalized learning, academic excellence, and whole-child development, Elite serves students across multiple regions with a commitment to innovation, equity, and measurable student growth.
To learn more or enroll, visit eliteacademic.com/enroll-now.
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Elite Academic Academy
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Elite Academic Academy Celebrates Class of 2026 with Graduation Rate Exceeding 92% and Three Inspiring Valedictorians
Elite Academic Academy (www.eliteacademic.com), a California public charter school network offering homeschool, virtual, flex, and independent study programs for TK–12 students, celebrates its Class of 2026, achieving an extraordinary graduation rate of well over 92% and the remarkable stories of three Elite valedictorians whose journeys embody the Elite spirit.
Across its Virtual Academy and Homeschool Academy programs, Elite this year sent students on to four-year universities, community colleges, and careers in fields ranging from pediatric medicine to elementary education to the world of Disney. Their paths are different, but the thread that binds them is the same: a school that met them where they were and helped them soar.
A Graduation Rate That Speaks for Itself.
Elite Academic Academy's graduation rate of well over 92% is not simply a statistic; it is a testament to the power of personalized, flexible education. For students who may have struggled to find their footing in traditional brick-and-mortar settings, Elite's non-classroom-based model has proven to be far more than an alternative. It is a pathway to the future.
"Our graduation rate reflects the dedication of our teachers, the partnership of our families, and above all, the determination of our students," said Ashlea Kirkland-Haynes, CEO of Elite Academic Academy. "Every percentage point in that number represents a real student whose life has been changed. We do not take their transformation through education lightly."
Three Valedictorians. Three Extraordinary Stories.
This year, Elite Academic Academy proudly honors three valedictorians — two from its Virtual Academy and one from its Homeschool Academy — each of whom leaves a lasting impression on their classmates and on the institution they have called home.
Aaliyah Maciel — Virtual Academy Valedictorian
For Aaliyah Maciel, Elite was a place of belonging. A student who once struggled to find her place and step outside her comfort zone, Aaliyah credits the encouragement of her teachers and the support of her family with helping her build not just a transcript, but a life full of new friendships and memories. This fall, she plans to attend community college before transferring to a four-year university to pursue a degree in elementary education. She aspires to one day be the kind of teacher who made a difference in her own life.
"My favorite part about being a student at Elite would have to be the support, flexibility, and the community we have at our school."
— Aaliyah Maciel, Elite Virtual Academy Valedictorian
Dana Mendoza — Virtual Academy Valedictorian
Dana Mendoza arrived at Elite in 10th grade after a difficult freshman year at another online institution, and she never looked back. In her days as an Elite student, Dana embraced every opportunity and challenge the school's flexible model offered, all while maintaining the kind of optimism that she says carried her through every obstacle.
This fall, Dana will begin her journey at Loyola Marymount University as a member of the Class of 2030, majoring in health and human sciences with a long-term goal of becoming a pediatric gastroenterologist. Inspired in part by Elite's Leading for Impact course, she also dreams of one day working at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
"Any student is immediately welcomed the second they join Elite. Elite cares for their students unlike any other institution I have attended."
— Dana Mendoza, Virtual Academy Valedictorian
Anders Sue — Homeschool Academy Valedictorian
Anders Sue used Elite's Homeschool Academy as a launchpad and took advantage of the school's resources to enroll in community college classes. Along the way, he learned a lesson that will serve him long after graduation: how to balance ambition with self-care. By practicing mindfulness and setting realistic goals, Anders overcame burnout and found his stride. He is now headed to UC San Diego this fall.
Beyond college, Anders has a dream he is not afraid to share: he wants to become an Imagineer at Disney. And true to form, he has a message for anyone reading this who has a dream of their own.
"My dream has always been to be an Imagineer at Disney. While I'll keep my mind open to any opportunities that may come my way, I won't give up on my dream, and neither should you."
— Anders Sue, Homeschool Academy Valedictorian
What Makes an Elite Education Special.
Elite Academic Academy's success with its Class of 2026 and the stories of Aaliyah, Dana, and Anders reflect the school's foundational commitment to meeting every student as an individual. Whether a student needs the freedom to learn from wherever they are, the structure of a personalized education plan, or simply the encouragement to step outside their comfort zone, Elite provides an environment in which those needs can be met.
These outcomes align with the school's broader academic performance. Elite's Mountain Empire Academy recently posted exceptional ratings from the California Dashboard in ELA, Mathematics, and Science. Across both its Lucerne and Mountain Empire Academies, Elite continues to outperform state and county averages in key academic categories, including among historically underserved student populations.
"When educators meet students where they are — through flexibility, strong relationships, and high expectations — students thrive," Kirkland-Haynes said. "Non-classroom-based charter schools are a powerful learning solution. Our students and their stories prove it."
About Elite Academic Academy
Founded in 2018, Elite Academic Academy is a California public charter school network offering homeschool, virtual, flex, and independent study programs for TK–12 students. Rooted in personalized learning, academic excellence, and whole-child development, Elite serves students across multiple regions with a commitment to innovation, equity, and measurable student growth. For more information, visit www.eliteacademic.com.
Media Contact:
Elite Academic Academy
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ELITE ACADEMIC ACADEMY WINS 2026 TELLY AWARD FOR ITS VIDEO FEATURED ON ALL ACCESS WITH ANDY GARCIA
TEMECULA, Calif., May 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Elite Academic Academy
(www.eliteacademic.com), a California public charter school serving TK–12 students through
flexible, personalized learning models, today announced it has received a 2026 Bronze Telly
Award in the Branded Content—Educational Institution category for its feature on All
Access with Andy Garcia.
Produced with support from Elite’s communications team and distributed on the nationally
syndicated public television series and local public television networks, the video showcases the
school’s student-centered mission, academic achievements, and distinctive learning philosophy.
Elite Academic Academy is among only a handful of TK–12 schools to earn a Telly Award in this
category in 2026.
The Telly Awards, now in their 47th annual season, honor excellence in video and television
content across thousands of entries from media companies, agencies, and institutions
worldwide. Elite’s winning entry premiered on the All Access with Andy Garcia program before
being broadcast on local public television networks, which provided the school with a rare
platform typically reserved for major media brands. The award reflects the strength not only of
Elite’s story, but of the leadership of CEO Ashlea Kirkland-Haynes, founder and former CEO
Meghan Freeman, and Social Media & Brand Manager Justin Diaz, whose collaboration
brought the school’s vision to a national audience.
“Winning a Telly Award for our video on All Access is an incredible honor, but the true story at
Elite remains the exceptional work happening between our teachers and students every day,”
said Kirkland-Haynes. “Our academic results reflect the power of strong institutional practices,
meaningful student relationships, and educators who personalize learning to meet the unique
needs, goals, and strengths of every Elite student.”
The Telly recognition arrives alongside a landmark academic credential: in January 2026, Elite
Academic Academy became one of the select schools in the nation to earn Level 3
certification through the Marzano High Reliability Schools™ (HRS) framework, the most
widely respected research-based model for continuous school improvement in the United
States. Level 3 certification affirms that a school has established a Guaranteed and Viable
Curriculum — meaning that curriculum, instruction, and assessment systems are fully aligned
so that every student receives equitable access to clearly defined learning outcomes and high-
quality instruction, regardless of the learning model they choose.
Academic Growth That Matches the Recognition
The Telly Award and Marzano certification reflect an institution producing measurable results in
the classroom. Combined data from the 2024–25 California Assessment of Student
Performance and Progress (CAASPP) and the California School Dashboard confirm that Elite’s
flexible, student-centered model delivers strong, verifiable outcomes across its Lucerne and
Mountain Empire Academies.
At Elite Academic Academy (Lucerne), CAASPP results showed an 8% increase in English
Language Arts (ELA), with 54% of students meeting or exceeding standards, thereby
outperforming both state (49%) and county (43%) averages. The Academy also achieved 14%
growth in Mathematics compared to the previous year, with gains realized across every
academy. Lucerne surpassed state and county performance in five of its six largest student
subgroups, including Hispanic, African American, and Students with Disabilities, which
demonstrates the reach of its equity-driven instructional practices.
At Elite Academic Academy (Mountain Empire), 56% of students met or exceeded ELA
standards on CAASPP, surpassing both state (49%) and county (54%) benchmarks.
Mathematics performance at 47% also exceeded state (37%) and county (42%) results. This
data reinforced instructional coherence across Elite’s virtual, homeschool, and flex learning
models.
California Dashboard outcomes mirror these CAASPP gains. Across both Academies, over 67%
of students improved in ELA and nearly 67% improved in Mathematics, earning Green ratings in
ELA, Mathematics, and College/Career Readiness, along with Green and Blue (the state’s
highest performance designation) ratings in Science.
“I am grateful that Elite received this Telly Award,” added Freeman. “More than the recognition
itself, this video project gave us the opportunity to share the heart of who we are with a wider
audience. Beyond our data-proven successes, Elite has always been a school built around
students, relationships, innovation, and meaningful learning experiences.”
About the Telly Awards
The Telly Awards, now in their 47th annual season, honor excellence in video and television
content. Entries are judged by a panel of industry professionals, and recognition is awarded
across categories including branded content, education, documentary, and more. For more
information, visit www.tellyawards.com.
About Marzano High Reliability Schools™
The Marzano High Reliability Schools™ (HRS) framework is a research-based model for
continuous school improvement developed by Dr. Robert J. Marzano and Marzano Resources.
The five-level framework guides schools from safe and collaborative culture through
competency-based education. Level 3 certification (Guaranteed and Viable Curriculum) is
earned only after rigorous evidence review confirming that curriculum, instruction, and
assessment are cohesively aligned to ensure equitable student outcomes.
About Elite Academic Academy
Elite Academic Academy is a California public charter school serving TK–12 students through
personalized, student-centered learning models including homeschool, virtual, and flex
academies. Founded by educators with over 75 combined years of traditional and charter
school leadership experience, Elite is committed to innovation, equity, and excellence and
empowering students to thrive academically, socially, and beyond. In addition to holding Level 3
Marzano High Reliability Schools™ certification, Elite is also a California Distinguished School.
Learn more at www.eliteacademic.com.
Elite Academic Academy Featured on 'All Access with Andy Garcia' as Showcasing the Future of Education
Elite Academic Academy may be seen on CNN, MSNBC, CNBC and FOX News and regional public television stations in a new segment of “All Access with Andy Garcia.”
Elite Academic Academy www.eliteacademic.com is transforming education by equipping teachers, collaborating with families, and tailoring learning to each student’s unique path. Elite Academic Academy will be spotlighted on CNN, MSNBC, CNBC and FOX News and on regional public television stations in an upcoming segment of “All Access with Andy Garcia.”
Public television viewers will get an inside look at Elite Academic Academy, a non-profit, non-classroom-based public charter school in California that personalizes learning around each student’s interests and academic goals. The feature will showcase Elite’s three unique academies: the collaborative Homeschool Academy; the flexible Flex Academy; and the fully immersive Virtual Academy—each built to serve the diverse and evolving needs of today’s students and families.
“At Elite Academic Academy, our mission is to provide students with the tools, confidence, and support to thrive in a world that is constantly evolving. We succeed by building an environment where education is more than instruction; it is inspiration. Our programs are designed to meet students where they are, spark their passions, and prepare them for the limitless possibilities ahead.” — Ashlea Kirkland-Haynes, M.A., M.Ed., CEO, Elite Academic Academy
The core of Elite Academic Academy’s model centers around a commitment to redefining what is possible in public education. Through its innovative programs, Elite provides students and educators with opportunities that merge academic excellence, cutting-edge technology, and human-centered learning.
The Elite X Fellowship pioneers professional development that equips teachers with the skills and confidence to harness transformative technologies and reimagine teaching in a digital era. Students experience Immersive VR/XR environments, from interactive 3D science labs to virtual field trips powered by artificial intelligence, thereby making learning engaging and limitless.
Elite also prepares students for future-ready careers through Career Technical Education (CTE), which offers pathways in rapidly growing industries, such as Digital Marketing, Animation & Game Design, Esports, Hospitality, Medical Administration, and Music Production.
For advanced learners, the SOAR Advanced Academics program provides enrichment and dual enrollment opportunities that give students access to college-level coursework, entrepreneurship training, and specialized studies in AI and creative arts.
Recognizing the need for a fully balanced education, Elite’s Peak Performance Athletics program integrates rigorous academics with the unique demands of student-athletes. This specialized program incorporates benchmark testing, training, and mental performance coaching aligned to NCAA standards.
Further, the Science of Hope & Mattering framework anchors the school’s social-emotional philosophy and ensures every student feels a sense of identity, purpose, and belonging in an increasingly complex world.
Together, these initiatives demonstrate how Elite Academic Academy is preparing students not only for academic success but for meaningful lives and future careers that demand creativity, adaptability, and resilience.
“Elite was founded on the belief that education could be both personalized and inclusive. What began as a dream has grown into a model that proves public schools can be innovative while staying true to the heart of education. At its core, Elite is about meeting students where they are, honoring their journey, and giving teachers the tools to light the way.”” — Meghan Freeman, M. ED. Founder, Elite Academic Academy
Learn more at https://www.allaccessptv.com/features-elite-academic-academy/.
About All Access with Andy Garcia
All Access with Andy Garcia is a public television program that offers viewers insightful stories about innovative organizations and their impact on industries and communities. Hosted by acclaimed actor Andy Garcia, the program aims to inspire and educate audiences about ingenuity and dedication in American enterprise. Learn more at: www.allaccessptv.com
About Elite Academic Academy
Elite Academic Academy is a trailblazing public charter school that empowers educators to innovate, partners with families to create personalized learning experiences, and prepares students with the skills and confidence to succeed beyond the classroom. Guided by flexibility, innovation, and purpose, Elite redefines the future of education.
Learn more at: www.eliteacademic.com
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Elite Academic Academy on All Access with Andy Garcia
Elite Academic Academy Releases Groundbreaking White Paper: From Teaching to Empowering - Revolutionizing Education in the Age of AI
TEMECULA, Calif., Oct. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Elite Academic Academy has unveiled its 2025 white paper, From Teaching to Empowering: Revolutionizing Education in the Age of AI, a bold call to action for reimagining the future of public education. The publication outlines a comprehensive vision for transforming schools into environments that prepare students not just for standardized outcomes, but for the complexity, creativity, and adaptability required in an AI-driven world.
The white paper, authored by Anna Shildrick of AI Educators and Elite Founder & CEO Meghan Freeman, M.Ed., highlights the need to move beyond outdated professional development models and instead embrace sustained coaching, pedagogical redesign, and educator empowerment through the innovative EliteX Fellowship Program.
From Teaching to Empowering: Revolutionizing Education in the Age of AI
Rooted in Elite's core mission of personalized learning, the Fellowship provides teachers with ongoing support to cultivate agency-oriented learning experiences that prioritize curiosity, collaboration, and critical thinking. This initiative was made possible through the collaboration with AI Educators, whose global team provided expertise in AI-integrated pedagogy, research design, and educator coaching, helping bring the vision of the EliteX Fellowship to life.
Founded in 2018, Elite Academic Academy has quickly risen to statewide recognition for excellence and innovation. In 2023, Elite's Mountain Empire school was named a California Distinguished School for closing achievement gaps among underserved student groups. Most recently, Elite was placed on California's Honor Roll, operating in the top 13% of all schools in San Diego County. These achievements underscore the Academy's commitment to measurable results while pushing the boundaries of what public education can achieve.
The white paper identifies six essentials of the EliteX model, emphasizing systemic transformation across leadership, instruction, and student engagement. It features real case studies, measurable outcomes, and testimonials from educators who have experienced the profound impact of EliteX. Through these insights, Elite demonstrates how intentional design and coaching can shift schools from teaching static skills to empowering learners for lifelong adaptability.
"As artificial intelligence transforms industries, education must also evolve," said Meghan Freeman. "We cannot prepare students for an unpredictable future with tools designed for the past. Elite's model equips both educators and students with the mindset and skills to thrive in an era defined by innovation and change."
The white paper concludes with a challenge to schools and leaders across the nation: embrace a system-wide shift that prioritizes agency, equity, and empowerment. With its proven record of success and innovative Fellowship model, Elite Academic Academy is charting a bold path forward for public education.
Contact:
Elite Academic Academy
www.eliteacademic.com
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