A Milestone Year for Achievement First: Celebrating 25 Years of Impact

Dear Friends of Achievement First, The new school year has arrived! As we head into fall, I’m filled with a profound sense of excitement and gratitude. This year marks a significant milestone—our 25th anniversary. It’s a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and to look forward with anticipation to the future of Achievement First. Our journey, which began in 1999 with the opening of Amistad Academy, a single middle school in New Haven, has grown into 41 schools across three states, serving over 15,000 children. While we celebrate this growth and the many achievements along the way, we also recognize that our work is far from finished. We are committed to creating a truly excellent educational experience that offers rigorous instruction, nurtures the whole child, and honors their lived experience. We aim to prepare our students for college and career—and even more broadly, for leading a purposeful life and fulfilling their dreams, whatever they may be. This year, we are excited to launch our five-year strategic plan. This plan is more than just a roadmap; it’s a reflection of our continued commitment to our mission and vision. As we embark on the first year of this plan, we are focused on strategic priorities that will help us achieve our graduate aims and further our impact. A key element of our success will be the culture we cultivate across our schools. Our values are the bedrock of Achievement First, guiding our actions and decisions every day. This year, we are dedicated to clearly defining and living our values, ensuring that integrity and accountability remain at the heart of all we do. This commitment is essential as we strive to serve our students and support our communities. As we begin this new school year—and the next quarter-century of AF—I’m confident that our shared purpose and commitment will lead us to even greater accomplishments. If you ever need a reminder of why this work matters, I encourage you to watch our 2024 Senior Signing Day video. It’s a powerful testament to the value of an Achievement First K-12 education. With your continued support, I know that together, we can make this first year of our next 25 years our best one yet. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey. With deep appreciation, Lisa

Share this story