Elite Academic Academy Earns Level 3 Marzano High Reliability Schools™ Certification
Elite Academic Academy proudly announces that it has earned Level 3 certification through Marzano's High Reliability Schools™ (HRS) framework, a nationally recognized, research-based model for continuous school improvement. This achievement affirms that Elite Academic Academy has successfully established a Guaranteed and Viable Curriculum, ensuring all students have equitable access to clearly defined learning outcomes and high-quality instruction across programs.
Level 3 certification signifies that a school has aligned curriculum, instruction, and assessment systems so that teachers know what students must learn, how it will be taught, and how mastery is measured, thereby creating consistency, clarity, and rigor while still honoring personalization and flexibility.
"This certification represents years of intentional work by our educators to ensure that every student receives a high-quality, research-aligned, personalized learning academic experience," said Ashlea Kirkland-Haynes, CEO of Elite Academic Academy. "Level 3 Marzano Certification validates that our systems are not only innovative, but also grounded in what works. It reflects our commitment to instructional excellence, equity, and continuous improvement."
The achievement was made possible through the strategic leadership of Associate Director of Curriculum, Marisa Thompson, and Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Laura Spencer, who led the development and implementation of Elite's curriculum frameworks, instructional expectations, and assessment practices.
Central to the Level 3 certification is the work of Elite Academic Academy's staff, who collaborated to design, refine, and implement a guaranteed and viable curriculum aligned to standards, data, and student needs. Through professional learning, cross-department collaboration, and reflective practice, teachers ensured curriculum pacing, instructional strategies, and assessments were cohesive and effective.
Earning Level 3 certification positions Elite Academic Academy among a select group of schools recognized nationwide for fidelity of implementation in its research-based practices. The school will continue advancing within the Marzano HRS framework as part of its broader commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student success.
About Elite Academic Academy
Elite Academic Academy is a California public charter school serving TK–12 students through personalized, student-centered learning models. Elite Academic Academy is committed to innovation, equity, and excellence, empowering students to thrive academically, socially, and beyond.
Senior Spotlight: Deliyah
Meet Deliyah, a graduating senior from our Virtual Academy who has truly made the most of her time at Elite. One of her favorite parts of being an Elite student was the opportunity to participate in field trips while also having the flexibility to attend college and work at the same time. That balance allowed her to grow both academically and personally as she prepared for life beyond high school.
After graduation, Deliyah plans to attend Southwestern College to complete her general education before continuing on to nursing school. Her goal is to become either a Labor and Delivery nurse or a Pediatric nurse, a path that reflects her caring nature and strong sense of purpose.
Outside of academics, Deliyah enjoys playing Marvel Rivals, baking, and swimming, interests that highlight her creativity and love for balance. As her teacher of record shared, Deliyah has been an absolute joy to work with. Her laughter is contagious, and she will be deeply missed.
Congratulations, Deliyah. We are so proud of you and cannot wait to see all that you accomplish next.
Senior Spotlight: Ashley
Ashley is an early graduate with a clear vision for her future and the dedication to make it happen. While completing high school, she earned her CNA license and spent her weekends working toward her goals. Now, she is ready to begin her nursing career and take the next step forward.
Ashley, your work ethic, kindness, and compassion truly set you apart. You balance care for others with the focus and determination needed to succeed, and that combination is powerful. We are so proud of everything you have accomplished and excited to see the incredible impact you will make in the world.
Congratulations on this amazing milestone.
Senior Spotlight: Kelly
Kelly is wrapping up her senior year in our Virtual Academy with so much to be proud of.
As a dedicated member of the Be Elite Podcast Club and a student in our CTE Intro to Podcasting A course within the Marketing Pathway, Kelly has spent the year bringing her creativity and ideas to life. She developed her own podcast series concept, turned her vision into engaging visuals using Canva, and earned two Canva certifications along the way.
Each month, she plays an active role in the collaboration, planning, and creativity that make our student podcast come together on YouTube. Her commitment, growth, and passion for storytelling have truly stood out.
We are proud of everything Kelly has accomplished and can’t wait to see where her creativity takes her next. Congratulations, Kelly!
Elite Academic Academy Students Record at Legendary EastWest Studios
Our students recently took their music beyond the classroom and into EastWest Studios, a space known for shaping some of the most iconic songs in history.
They spent the day recording an original track they wrote themselves, moving from songwriting to production with focus, creativity, and real collaboration. Every lyric, every note, and every take reflected the effort they’ve put into growing as artists.
Watching them bring their music to life in a professional studio was a moment worth celebrating. We’re proud of the work they created and excited for what’s next.
Learn more about our songwriting and music production courses at eliteacademic.com/cte.
Welcome Back and Happy New Year!
Welcome back, Elite students. We’re excited to kick off 2026 together and jump into everything this year has to offer.
This year brings more chances to connect in person, explore through field trips, celebrate at dances, and mark major milestones like graduation. These moments matter because they bring our community together, create memories, and make learning feel real beyond the screen.
We’re ready for the energy, the laughter, and the growth that comes from being together again. It’s good to have you back, and we can’t wait to see what you make of 2026.
Student Spotlight: Akari & Harley
Akari, Harley, and their mom Maya are turning learning into a full-on adventure, and we love celebrating the way they bring education to life. Their homeschool journey with Elite is filled with creativity, movement, and curiosity. Whether they are fishing, exploring ships connected to the kids’ love of the ocean, rock climbing, or hiking new trails, every day becomes a chance to discover something new.
For the past two years, this family has embraced a nature-based, hands-on approach that keeps their learning active and meaningful. Their passion, teamwork, and excitement remind us how powerful homeschooling can be when students and families lean into what they love.
We are so proud of the way this family makes learning an adventure and shows what flexible education can look like at Elite.
Are you looking into a homeschool program and want to partner with the best educators for your journey? Secure your spot at Elite today by visiting eliteacademic.com/enroll-now
Elite Academic Academy Featured on "All Access with Andy Garcia" as Showcasing the Future of Education
https://youtu.be/Yk5TVCMymjQ
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 regional PBS 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
Digital Citizenship Week
Elite’s DECA chapter hosted a student-led workshop for Digital Citizenship Week, focusing on online safety and privacy, cyberbullying prevention, digital footprints and reputation, and respectful online communication.
As a Career Technical Student Organization, DECA gives students hands-on experience in leadership, marketing, and design while preparing them for future careers. During the workshop, students participated in a design activity, creating graphics that show how they plan to practice responsible digital citizenship.
See the creativity and ideas our students brought to life below.
Learn more about DECA at https://www.eliteacademic.com/cte/.
Elite Academic Academy is on California’s 2025 Honor Roll
Out of thousands of schools statewide, only the top 21 percent earned this distinction for high achievement and closing gaps in reading, writing, and math. Our students are showing every day what’s possible when curiosity, effort, and support come together.
This honor celebrates every student who pushes themselves, every teacher who guides them, and the community that makes learning engaging, challenging, and rewarding. At Elite, excellence is recognized and lived every day by our learners.
Keep reaching higher, Elite students. This achievement belongs to you!
