Volume 32 | April 2025

EEG News & Updates

Mission

The mission of the Educational Empowerment Group is to promote knowledge, wisdom and understanding to all stakeholders that empowers success in our global society.
Vision

The vision of the Educational Empowerment Group is to elevate the experience for students and stakeholders by positively changing the landscape of charter school education.

A Message from the CEO



Team, as our students embark on the Ohio State Tests, I want to remind us all of the extraordinary potential within each of them. Let’s ignite their drive to excel, knowing they have poured heart and soul into their learning. Now is their moment to truly shine!


Encourage them to believe in their own brilliance, to trust the knowledge they have gained and to demonstrate the boundless capabilities that lie within. I also want to express my unwavering belief in you, our exceptional school leadership teams. Together, let’s light the path to success for our students. I’m with you, cheering you on with every fiber of my being!


Wendy Rydarowicz

                EEG Founder 

        

 “If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.”  -Henry Ford

Amazing Shake Global Edition

Get ready to be inspired! Our very own Chloe, a 6th grade student from Beacon Academy and Khaliyah, a 7th grade student from South Side Academy took on the world at the Global Amazing Shake Competition at the legendary Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, GA. These incredible students dove headfirst into a whirlwind of professional challenges, mastering the art of the perfect handshake, captivating conversations and navigating the infamous ‘Gauntlet’. They rubbed shoulders with rising stars from Hawaii to Honduras, experiencing a global exchange like no other.


We are very proud of our students and impressed with the implementation of the Amazing Shake competition at our schools. Now, brace yourselves, because the excitement continues! Mark your calendars for May 8, as EEG’s State Amazing Shake Competition descends upon Akron, OH. Champions will rise and legends will be made! You do not want to miss this showdown!


Unlock the Hidden Gems of Our Schools

We are gearing up for a dynamic summer enrollment season, and we want to ensure our community knows about the exceptional opportunities our schools provide. To supercharge our summer enrollment, let’s shine a spotlight on what makes us unique, such as vibrant STEAM and CTE programs, the Amazing Shake, the House System and Emulation, dynamic arts and sports and impactful community partnerships—all within a nurturing, safe environment where students thrive. Let’s make sure our community knows just how special our schools are. Continue to highlight this information in your newsletters and board reports. Additionally, when participating community events, be sure to tell your school’s story. By sharing these stories, we will inspire families to join our community and transcend enrollment targets.



EBAE Students Gain Real-World Skills Through Junior Achievement & OSU Programs

Students at East Bridge Academy of Excellence (EBAE) recently had the exciting opportunity to participate in the Junior Achievement Program of Central Ohio. This dynamic program equips students with essential workforce skills, focusing on financial literacy, career readiness and entrepreneurial thinking through interactive, hands-on learning.


Additionally, East Bridge Academy students gained valuable financial literacy skills through the “Real Money, Real World” simulation, a powerful program facilitated by OSU. This experience provided students with a realistic glimpse into managing finances in the adult world.


By bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world application through hands-on, collaborative activities, this program reinforces evidence-based teaching practices that deepens comprehension, boosts engagement and enhances learning. What a way to Elevate the Experience!


For more information about the Junior Achievement Program, click here:


Facts regarding OSU’s Real Money, Real World can be accessed here.



From Workshop to Marketplace: OCA Students Launch “Pop Up” Business

Our talented OCA students are bringing their skills to the marketplace! Through the Junior Achievement program and their innovative “Pop Up” business, they are crafting and selling custom lamps from our welding program and stunning “Buckeye” themed shadow boxes from our carpentry/woodworking courses.


Adding an electrifying touch, students in our electrical course are wiring LED lighting into the shadow boxes. These one-of-a-kind items will be available for purchase, both in-person and online via the Shark Supply website, offering our local community and beyond the chance to support student ingenuity.



Lake Erie International High School’s New Lab Sparks Excitement

The future is bright at Lake Erie International High School, and we are thrilled to announce the incredible progress on our new, updated facility! Witness the magic, as our dedicated facilities team, the visionary Principal Dismond, the passionate high school support team, and the unstoppable Wendy and Tom have joined forces to create an innovative construction and electrical lab. This is not just a space; it is a testament to collaboration, innovation and our unwavering commitment to providing students with the most advanced learning environment. Get ready to be amazed, as we unveil this cutting-edge space, where students will learn, create, and build their future.



Stories, Stars and Community Spirit at Miami Valley Academy

Miami Valley Academy transformed into a hub of literary adventure during Read Across America Week. Our students were thrilled to welcome the esteemed Belmont High School JROTC and the inspiring men of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, who shared their love of reading and brought stories to life. This was not just reading; it was a powerful moment of mentorship and community engagement, where our students discovered the magic of books and the importance of lifelong learning. This was a priceless moment that our students will never forget.


From Textbooks to the Statehouse

The scholars of A+ Maybury transformed social studies class into an adventure during their recent trip to the Ohio Statehouse. They witnessed firsthand how government works, exploring history and civic responsibility in a dynamic, engaging setting. This immersive experience brought their learning to life, making lessons both relevant and exciting. What a great way to breathe life into lessons while integrating fun exploration. 


Welcome to the World, Laynie Kate!

Our warmest congratulations go out to Stephanie Webb and her family on the arrival of their precious daughter, Laynie Kate! Born on March 25, Laynie Kate weighed in at a delightful 7 pounds, 9 ounces. We are overjoyed for Stephanie and her family and wish them all the happiness in the world, as they celebrate this special moment.


Did You Know? – Charter School Funding & Salaries

Did you know that funding structures can lead to notable pay differences between Ohio’s charter schools and traditional public schools? While both receive public funds, charter school budgets are often tied directly to per-pupil allocations. This can result in less financial flexibility compared to traditional districts, which may have additional local tax revenue. As a result, charter school teacher salaries and benefits can sometimes vary significantly, and might be less competitive than those offered by traditional public school districts in the same area.

The Health Corner

With spring’s arrival, so comes the familiar sniffle for 81 million Americans battling pollen, grass and weed allergies. Do not allow seasonal discomfort hold you back. This month, we are sharing essential tips on how to manage allergies and thrive. Here are a few:


  • Keep track of pollen and mold counts.
  • Keep the indoor air clean with HEPA filters and keep windows and doors closed.
  • Shower and change to clean clothes after spending time outside.
  • Bathe your pets often.
  • Wash your bedding in hot water weekly.
  • Vacuum floors at least once a week.


We are also bringing you creative ways to boost your exercise routine and conquer chronic stress, plus a delicious, low-calorie sautéed spring vegetable recipe – only 138 calories per serving! Double up and enjoy a healthy, vibrant spring!


Live Well, Work Well April 2025

The Educational Empowerment Group
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