Self Development Academy (SDA) was established in 2000, and currently serves about 460 students, from kindergarten through eighth grade, with dedicated teachers presenting a rigorous curriculum in a nurturing environment.
“Each day at SDA is a new opportunity to connect with students, learn from them, and hopefully make a difference in their lives,” said Laurie Baeder, a faculty member of Self Development Academy (SDA) who has taught at the school for nearly 10 years.
Ms. Sherri Cote, a member of SDA’s founding faculty, began teaching at SDA 15 years ago, and is now teaching middle school literature. Her former students eagerly return to share their many accomplishments after completing their schooling at SDA.
Ms. Katie Player began her career at SDA in 2006. She shared her own professional and personal growth because of her positive experiences at SDA. “I came from a background, which affirmed perfection,” Ms. Player stated. “When I first began teaching, I expected the same perfection from my students. Soon, I learned to be more patient and to handle situations differently.”
Ms. Jaime Borst-Smith, a third-grade teacher, began her teaching career as a kindergarten teacher at SDA five years ago. She believes SDA has taught her many lessons about how to become an effective teacher by having “… an open mind and continually looking for growth.”
Teacher growth can be at a personal, as well as professional level. Ms. Melody Oliver’s personal goals to become a marathon runner received full support from her students and colleagues. A banner from her students wishing her well, and the many marathon medals in her classroom, are examples of how her efforts for personal growth are celebrated.
Ms. Linda Steiner, a published author, became a part of the school’s community when she first enrolled her daughter in fourth grade in 2002. Soon after, she became an employee at SDA. Her book is about her daughter, Hayley, and her courage to face the challenges of her physical appearance as she underwent surgeries to correct the condition. Ms. Steiner’s book, Hayley’s Courage, describes Hayley’s heartfelt response to the taunts she endured as a child. The book provides guidance for children with challenges to fit in with peers.
“I really enjoy teaching a rigorous curriculum that challenges students and makes the classroom environment more positive,” Ms. Borst-Smith said. “Everyone who works here strives to make this a student-centered school.”
Faculty members echo the theme of striving for excellence to achieve success. “First, I love the fact high standards are the norm, not only for the teachers but students, as well,” Ms. Kathi Haschke, a first-grade teacher, explained. “Second, everyone helps everyone else to do their very best. When students are recognized for their efforts, they are praised often, and encouraged to strive for excellence. The results turn out to be wonderful.”
Teachers share high expectations for student achievement. “My work as an instructor at SDA is challenging and beneficial because the learning expectations are high, and students meet those expectations,” said Ms. Oliver. “In my third-grade class, I have a few second-grade students who are actually doing fourth-grade work and doing very well.”
“SDA’s teachers see the potential in all students, and work with each student to ensure they reach their full potential and achieve success,” said Ms. Christina Harguess. She has taught at SDA for nearly 11 years. Recognized as the charter school teacher of the year, in 2013, by Arizona Charter Schools Association, Ms. Harguess is a member of the school’s leadership team.
Ms. Annmarie Rivera, a teacher at SDA since 2006, narrated the success story of her former student, Cade Cote. “As a fourth-grader, Cade’s dream was to play in the NFL,” she said. “With guidance from his parents, Mark and Sherri Cote, Cade’s success in academics, as well as in sports, has reached high achievement levels. As a senior in high school, Cade has been offered nearly $1.5 million in scholarships to play football at the university level,” Ms. Rivera continued. “I am proud to have been a part of Cade’s life.”
Ms. Naomi Medina currently teaches second grade, and has been a part of the faculty at Self Development Charter School and the Preschool for more than 15 years. “I enjoy the small school atmosphere, close community and the leadership of the school,” she said.
Jennifer Salvatori, the foreign language teacher, is part of the leadership team at SDA, where she began teaching in 2007. “I enjoy my work and my relationships with administration and my co-workers, students and families,” she stated. Ms. Salvatori discussed the positive aspects of the change in her career from the mental health/social services field to education and added, “Working with children is enjoyable because you can make a difference in their lives.”
Ms. Rachel Hunt, a founding board member, is an extraordinary science teacher. She inspires students’ inner curiosity for learning. “Teachers continue to work at SDA because they share the same philosophy. The school’s culture emphasizes positive focus on student learning and motivation. Teachers have a sense of pride, and they enjoy working at a school that values student learning, while providing a nurturing environment.”
Many other faculty members have made significant contributions. Foremost among them is Ms. Vernetta Madsen and Mr. Mark Cote, who have contributed to the school’s culture by focusing on aspects such as safety, physical education, dance and extracurricular activities.
Ms. Sydney Howard, a teacher new to our school this year, shared an experience when one of her kindergarten students realized she could read. “The student looked up and declared, ‘I am reading,’” Ms. Howard said. “I could feel the pride she felt, and I was happy to be part of the reason she felt so good.”
For more information regarding Self Development Academy, call (480) 641-2640.