About Mesa Arts Academy
Mission Statement
The Boys & Girls Academy of Mesa, (a collaboration with Mesa Public Schools, the City of Mesa, and the Boys & Girls Club of the East Valley, housed at the Grant Woods Branch of Boys & Girls Club of the East Valley), has as its mission the providing of an excellent basic education for middle school students (K through 8th grades) through the use of an arts-based curriculum which provides a continuum of education using the mediums of art, drama, dance, music, etc., using techniques such as television and radio, which target the development of heightened interest in continuing education, and the development to the fullest possible of the skills and talents of the youth attending its programs.
Our History
When Mesa Public Schools first approached BGCAZ (Formally known as BGCEV) to be a charter school as an extension of the public school, they wanted us to be an alternative program. The Board of Directors and Gary Yazwa, CEO at the time, wanted more. Having success with providing performing arts programs as a part of the Club experience, this became our platform.
We wanted children to be able to express themselves through the arts.
The first year the program was piloted to 5th and 6th grade, year two we expanded to include 7th grade, and in year three we established a K-8 grade elementary/junior high program. Teachers were on loan from Mesa Public Schools for the first 2 years as the charter grew and developed.
When it was determined BGCAZ/MAA was well established, the teachers were given an option of going back to the district or staying with the charter. All teachers stayed with the charter school. In year two we hired a full-time principal, Sue Douglas, who was with us until her retirement in 2017.
Values:
- Respect – Treat everyone like GOLD, Be nice, Patience pays
- Enthusiasm – Jump to it! Focus, Bring an A+ attitude
- Achievement – Top quality, Achievement First
- Citizenship – No excuses, Be honest, Help others
- Hard Work – Bring supplies, Act like a college student today