August 26, 2003

Joining us today was Estelle Strader, Principal of the Coral Springs Charter School.  While a public school it draws its students from a lottery system, and is not under the Broward County School Board .  The charter for the school is owned by the city of Coral Springs and the school is privately managed.  It started out as an "F" graded school by the state of Florida and in three years has become "A" rated.  It is located in what was Coral Springs' first Mall, which has been totally refurbished by the city to become a first class learning environment.  The school has adopted a format called Ace Academy - Academic and Career Excellence.   The mission of the Ace Academy is to "provide students with support, resources and professional development through a comprehensive course of study with real-life hands-on experiences".  This also involves the business and professional community who participate in internships for qualified and accepted students who must meet rigid academic standards and undergo a real life interview process.

Before the meeting Prez Drew announced that we were one of the very few clubs in the District which met the goals set by the District for Foundation giving and Polio Plus Fundraising.  As this occurred during Dennis' year Drew presented Dennis with the District's "Meritorious Achievement Award".  As his acceptance speech Dennis said "Huh??"

Estelle Strader, Principal

Coral Springs Charter School

"I don't know what is is but I will take it" Award

Meritorious Achievement Award