Points of Pride

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2026 Points of Pride

ESA is a 2026 National Magnet School of Distinction, Magnet Schools of America

Magnet School of Distinction Awards are the second level of awards given to magnet schools that have met all the basic requirements outlined in the merit awards scoring rubric.

 

2026 Mr. West names Region 3 Principal of the Year

Magnet Schools of America Schools of America (MSA), the national association representing magnet schools and programs, has named Mr. Samuel Wayne West, principal of Elite Scholars Academy, as a 2026 Principal of the Year Regional Finalist. Mr. West represents Region III which encompasses Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The Magnet Schools of America Principal of the Year Award recognizes exceptional school leaders who demonstrate outstanding commitment to magnet education, student achievement, innovation, equity, and community engagement. As a regional finalist, Mr. West is among a select group of principals nationwide honored for leadership that advances the mission and impact of magnet schools.

 

2nd place National Art Contest, Suri Nguyen, Magnet Schools of America

9^th grade student, Suri Nguyen, advanced to the National Level in the National Magnet Schools Student Poster Contest hosted by Magnet Schools of America and placed 2^nd overall. This is an incredible achievement and a true reflection of Suri’s creativity, dedication, and talent.

 

 

 

2026 NBA/Jr. WNBA Scholastic Coach of the Year Lorenzo Bailey

Each year, teams from the NBA, WNBA, and G League nominate candidates for the Jr. NBA/Jr. WNBA Coach of the Year award. The award recognizes a coach who takes a holistic approach to the game, serves as a mentor by demonstrating outstanding character, fosters a culture that promotes character development among players, goes above and beyond to support their youth organization, and uses sports as a platform to address and educate players on mental health and social justice issues. Coach Bailey, health and physical education teacher and beloved coach, has been named the 2026 Scholastic Coach of the Year for his sustained excellence in developing elite programs and student-athletes.

 

 

1st Place CCPS Spelling Bee, Uwarre Olaye

Congratulations to 8^th grade student Uwarre Olaye. He won the ESA school spelling bee and went on to compete at the CCPS District Spelling Bee. He came in 1^st place and won the county competition!