Elementary Academy

From our youngest learners in the Elementary Academy to our graduating seniors, we are one community working together to ensure every student feels seen, challenged, supported, and prepared for the future. Throughout the year, we will intentionally create opportunities for students, families, and staff to connect across our K–12 community through shared experiences, traditions, and collaboration, strengthening relationships and reinforcing that we are One Drew. 

As we continue implementing Drew's Strategic Plan, we remain committed to educational excellence, innovation, and equity. While our nationally recognized STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and Project-Based Learning (PBL) approach continues to provide students with engaging, real-world learning experiences, this year we are placing an intentional emphasis on strengthening our Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programming.

At the Elementary Academy, we know that academic success begins with students feeling safe, connected, and valued. Social and Emotional Learning helps children develop the skills they need to understand and manage emotions, build positive relationships, make responsible decisions, and persevere through challenges. These competencies not only strengthen academic achievement but also foster resilience, empathy, confidence, and leadership, skills that prepare our students for success in school and beyond. Through classroom instruction, schoolwide initiatives, and meaningful relationships with caring adults, we are committed to helping every child thrive.

As Georgia's first K–12 STEAM-certified school, Drew continues to provide innovative learning experiences that encourage creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and problem solving. This year, the Elementary Academy will continue the STEAM re-certification process, ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovative teaching and learning while preparing students to succeed in an ever-changing world.

Our students continue to demonstrate exceptional achievement, leadership, and creativity. Recent accomplishments include:

• Our students shined through engaging Project-Based Learning experiences that fostered creativity, collaboration, and real-world problem solving. 
• EA students continue to score above national norms on the MAP assessments in both reading and mathematics.
• Based on Spring 2026 MAP & Milestones performance, 93% of students met growth/achievement targets in Math. 
• Based on Spring 2026 MAP performance, 88% of students are projected to meet growth/achievement targets in Reading (we await 2026 GMAS scores). 
• Students showcased their artistic talents across a variety of venues through band, dance, orchestra, theater, and chorus performances; visual arts and photography exhibitions; community performances and parades; and special events, including an Atlanta Hawks pre-game performance. 
• The Helen Ruffin Reading Bowl Team placed 2nd at the District Competition and 2nd at the Regional Competition.
• Drew’s team earned 2nd Place in the 2026 APS Minecraft E-sports Challenge.  
• Several students demonstrated innovation by earning top honors at the District and State Science Fairs. 
• Through Station WDCS, our student-run Mass Communications Club kept the school community informed with daily live-streamed announcements while developing leadership, communication, and broadcasting skills. Their outstanding work was recognized with a feature on CBS News Atlanta.

These accomplishments represent just a glimpse of the incredible learning and opportunities taking place throughout the Elementary Academy each day.

We are also proud to continue Drew CARES, our cost-equity initiative and annual giving campaign, which helps ensure every student has access to the experiences that make a Drew education exceptional. Rather than charging fees for clubs, athletics, field experiences, and other enrichment opportunities, families are invited to make tax-deductible contributions if and when they are able. Every gift directly supports equitable access so that all students can fully participate in the rich opportunities our school provides.

Thank you for your continued partnership and for entrusting us with your child's education. Together, as One Drew, we will continue to create a school community where every child is challenged to think critically, encouraged to dream boldly, supported through meaningful relationships, and inspired to reach their fullest potential.

We are excited for the year ahead and look forward to all we will accomplish together.

#OneDrew
 
Be well,
Monishae O’Neill
Principal