Nelson Mandela Elementary

Nelson Mandela Elementary opened its doors to 100 kindergarten and first grade students in august of 2015. Adding a grade each year, the School is now at its full complement of grades k-5 with 225 scholars. 85% of the scholars came from within 1.5 miles of the School. With a high population of families who qualified through direct certification programs, we were able to take advantage of the cep (community eligibility program) federal food reimbursement. This is awarded to schools who have at least 85% of the population that would qualify for free and reduced lunch. The racial make-up of the School is 97% african american, 1% caucasian, and 2% hispanic and asian.the five initiatives that make Nelson Mandela unique are: 1) spalding reading, 2) mindfulness, 3) recess every 90 minutes, 4) all scholars play violin, and 5) year-round School. A climate survey issued to all scholars and families reflected a positive School climate and approval of the unique initiatives. Parents do not pay tuition for their scholar to attend the School, but are required to volunteer. At this time there is a waiting list for all grade levels.

The Nelson Mandela early childhood development center (ecdc) opened in march of 2019 with 32 children. In august of 2019, the ecdc welcomed 64 scholars and has kept that enrollment consistent. There is no tuition charge, and families must engage 35 hours a year at School. The ecdc is licensed and uses the high scope curriculum. The ecdc has attained step four on the step up to quality evaluation.nelson Mandela ecdc is designed to be a catalyst that helps children reach their educational goals, fulfill their potential in School and beyond. Committed to building community partnerships that strengthen the educational experiences for all learners and their families, Nelson Mandela ecdc has a great opportunity to align future scholars and families to stay engaged in learning and growing. The ecdc provides educational services to children ages 3-5 years. The center has a year-round, full-day schedule.