As we celebrate Urban Academy’s 25th Anniversary this year, I have already had some opportunities to reflect on the growth UA has experienced over the last quarter-century. These conversations are happening alongside, and often inspiring, the discussions about UA’s future. Amidst the stories I’ve heard, it is very clear that the UA of today exists because those earlier UA families chose to take risks and invest in a future they believed in. They created the momentum that brought us to where we are now, and for that, we are incredibly grateful.
In the spirit of collaboration and giving, we are launching our Annual Giving Campaign today. Due to the postal strike, we have done things a little bit differently this year. Please ask your oldest UA child to dig your Annual Appeal letter of invitation out of their backpack! This is an integral part of our year when we dream together about all that is possible for UA Students. We have passionate staff who envision even greater programming and opportunities for students, but we rely on your support in order to bring those dreams to fruition.
This year, as always, we have a goal of 100% parent participation, that every family commits in their own way to the vision we share. We believe that together, we can reach our goal of $225,000! Those funds will go on to support three different areas: the Head of School Wishlist for facility and operational enhancements and upgrades, curricular and extracurricular programming enhancements, and financial aid and scholarship support.
Last year, we focused on these same areas and while you can read more about what we were able to achieve in that envelope, here are some examples of how those funds were spent. The third-floor renovation created a new, dedicated counsellor’s office, and new common area furniture was added to the Sr. School, as well as furniture to fit out two additional classrooms. We purchased cutting-edge tech, science, media arts, outdoor ed and PE equipment, including gym upgrades. We also enhanced professional development opportunities for our staff. And finally, investments were made in the property next door for increased outdoor space and to facilitate the new garden project.
This is an incredible number of items that we were able to add – and that impact students directly – because of our community! So once again, we look to you. Your participation sends a powerful message of community and solidarity. It ensures we continue to grow our programs, develop our people, and enhance our spaces. So please consider what this may look like for your family, and please help us kick this campaign off well by participating today as we work together to achieve our goals!
Yours in dreaming together,
Mike Slinger
Head of School