Message from Louise
To YES Charter Academy Families
My name is Louise, and although I now serve as principal/superintendent, my journey began where many of you are now—as a parent trying to help my child thrive in a system that didn’t always understand him. What I experienced as a parent is that student success isn’t measured by standardized tests alone, and many children learn in ways traditional schools aren’t built to support. Even with a caring teacher, I saw my son slipping through the cracks. I felt the same guilt, frustration, and uncertainty many families feel today.
I volunteered in his first‑grade classroom, homeschooled him until he learned to read, and eventually became a substitute teacher, then a full‑time elementary teacher. Over more than 20 years in a local district, I learned how deeply parents want a school that will figure out how their child learns best. When families and educators work together, confusion can be replaced with understanding, hope, and direction.
I’m a product of local schools and raised my children here. This community is woven into my life, and families tell me they want their children close to home and surrounded by the people they know and love. YES is committed to being that home‑grown option.
Since joining YES in 2017, our staff has worked to build a school that reflects what families say they want: • Project‑based learning rooted in authentic environmental issues • Outdoor learning as a daily practice • A Farm to School program with a garden, greenhouse, henhouse, and orchard • Addition of high school • A learning environment where student talent and potential are recognized and developed
Parents want a school that listens, adapts, and responds. YES is stronger today because of your partnership, your feedback, and your trust.
I would love to meet with you—whether to celebrate your child’s successes or discuss how YES can be even more responsive to their needs. Please reach out anytime to schedule a conversation. Your voice helps shape our school, and your child’s growth is at the heart of everything we do.
July 7, 2026