Learning together means that students, teachers and staff members have the opportunity to explore, collaborate and solve problems daily.
This allows students to share ideas and concepts that are meaningful to them, and teachers and staff can continue to expand students’ knowledge of academics and curriculum, as well as the world around them.
Darron Daniels, originally from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, earned a B.A. in strategic communications from Elon University in 2016 and an M.A. in educational media from Appalachian State University in 2021. He currently serves as the Academy’s Director of Student Affairs and Emergency Management. Read on to learn more:
Why did you choose to work at the Academy?
I chose to work at the Academy because of the students, as well as the culture that has been developed over the last four years. Our staff does an excellent job of supporting students and working together to address their needs.
What's your favorite part about working at the Academy?
The students and having the opportunity to see them grow. There are some students who are currently in grades three through five, and I remember their time in grades kindergarten through second — it's really remarkable to see how much they have learned and grown.
How are you impacting education in your community?
I am working to influence how the student conduct referral process works through implementing restorative and other best practices that reduce suspensions, focus on community development and reverse negative trends.
What was your favorite subject when you were in elementary school?
Math
The Academy has a reading literacy focus. What is your favorite book?
In elementary school, my favorite book was Hatchet by Gary Paulsen.
“Learning together” is a core commitment of the Academy. What does "learning together" mean to you?
Learning together means that students, teachers and staff members have the opportunity to explore, collaborate and solve problems daily.
This allows students to share ideas and concepts that are meaningful to them, and teachers and staff can continue to expand students’ knowledge of academics and curriculum, as well as the world around them.
Describe an experience where you "learned together" at the Academy.
The Academy offers ongoing training and professional development for teachers and staff, where we have the opportunity to learn together about the most effective ways to support students.
Just for fun, what is your favorite candy?
Snickers
Darron Daniels
