Sept. 19, 2026
Information provided by Brevard Academy
PISGAH FOREST, N.C. — The Brevard Academy Board of Directors met Sept. 16 and discussed the charter school’s new middle school “house system” designed to strengthen middle school community, build school pride, and reinforce Brevard Academy’s Code of Behavior.
Adapted from the Ron Clark non-profit charter academy model created in Atlanta, this cooperative pedagogy separates Brevard Academy students into four “houses” (Isibindi, Altruismo, Rêveur, and Amistad), each with its own specific traditions, in order to create new opportunities for students to connect, lead, and grow together. More information about the house system is available at www.brevardacademy.org/houses.
Assistant Director Michael Terry shared information about the “Essential 55” character-building series in which students practice one or more weekly habits intended to support respectful behavior, citizenship, confidence, and the school’s “1% Better” daily-growth focus. The school introduced the concept to students earlier this year through weekly student-created video challenges featuring staff and the school’s mascot.
School Director Ted Duncan noted a slight improvement in beginning-of-year data compared to the previous school year and that Brevard Academy is currently averaging 444 students, compared to the state’s starting budget figure of 423 students. This has resulted in a projected budget surplus of approximately $110,000 instead of a deficit.
The Board received a Giving Day update that sponsors BCW Remodel and Silly Goose Embroidery had donated a combined $7,500 to the upcoming Sept. 23 fundraising effort. Cash on hand was reported at 42 days.
The Board voted unanimously to open an account at Stifel to manage the qualified charitable deductions account with Director Duncan and Business Manager Juli Lefler authorized to manage the account.
Members also unanimously approved updates to the alcohol and drug policy, adoption of the school wellness policy, and opting in to provide state-provided staff parental leave. The Board also voted unanimously to bundle facility improvement needs, including shade trees for the lower playground and front entrance design work. Members were also informed of the launch of a girls flag football team earlier this school session.
The next monthly Brevard Academy Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Oct. 21 at 5:30 p.m.