Detroit Achievement Academy

Program Type: 
Garden Classrooms, Farm Based, Kitchen Classrooms, School Cafeterias, Academic Classrooms
Grade Level/Age Group: 
Lower Elementary
Number of Individuals Program Serves: 
100
Year Founded: 
2013
About the Program: 

We are an elementary school on the northwest side of Detroit that currently serves 105 students between the ages of 5-10. Since opening our doors, we have been the highest performing primary school in the city, with our students’ academic growth in the 99th percentile nationally. As a school we exist to holistically support the education and development of students who have the determination, drive, and skills to shape their own path of high achievement with the ultimate goal of creating civically engaged, joyful citizens who are ready to change the world. As an expeditionary learning school, our innovative learning expeditions allow us to teach all subjects through the lens of a broader topic, so students authentically learn in the context of the community and world in which they live. We are currently in the process of developing the two acres of green space next to our school into a farm and outdoor classroom.  We know that this space will enhance our academic and wellness curriculum, and we hope that long term, it will be fully embedded into the culture and other programs of our school. And because we are a 100% free lunch rate school in a city where food desserts are common, we recognize the urgency of integrated healthy food education.