Principal’s Message
Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year at Penn Wood Ninth Grade Academy.
Every scholar who walks through our doors this year is starting something new: a new school, a new set of expectations, and for many, a new sense of what they are capable of. Our job, as a staff, is to make sure that transition is one they can trust. That means clear routines from day one, teachers who know their content and know their kids, and a culture where every scholar knows we are here to support their success.
This year, our work is guided by a simple vision: Engage. Align. Elevate.
We engage scholars in real, rigorous instruction. We align our systems, our data, and our support so nothing falls through the cracks. And we elevate every scholar’s sense of what is possible for them, academically and personally.
Underneath that vision is a framework we use every day when we think about how to support each scholar: REACH. Recognition. Esteem. Advocacy. Connection. Hope. Before we ask what, a scholar needs to work on, we ask what they need from us. Every decision we make starts with that question, because a scholar who feels recognized and supported is a scholar who is ready to succeed. None of this works without you. Families are our first and most important partners. A few ways to stay connected this year:
– Attend Back-to-School events. Dates and times will be posted on our school calendar and shared through our usual communication channels.
– Check in early and often. If something feels off with your scholar, whether academic, social, or otherwise, reach out to their teacher or counselor before it becomes a bigger problem. Early is always easier.
– Expect to hear from us, not just about problems. We want to celebrate growth too.
Ninth grade is a pivotal year. It is where habits form, identities take shape, and futures start to come into focus. I am honored to lead a staff that takes that responsibility seriously, and I am glad your scholar is spending it with us.
Here is to a strong year ahead.
With respect and high expectations,
Mr. Curry
Principal, Penn Wood Ninth Grade Academy
