Brooklyn Emerging Leaders Academy (BELA) is a trailblazing all-girls charter school in the heart of Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, with a mission to empower Black and Brown young women to become the best versions of themselves. Through a rigorous college preparatory curriculum, service learning, and a restorative approach to discipline, BELA ensures that its students are equipped to attend and graduate from college as confident, compassionate leaders.
“At BELA, we’re not just preparing students for college—we’re preparing them to thrive as leaders in their communities and beyond,” says Nicole Davis, Dean of Operations. “We aim to cultivate a spirit of ownership within each young woman, inspiring them to take charge of their futures.”
Using EdTech to Enhance Empowerment
BELA leverages cutting-edge educational technology to streamline operations, enhance communication, and support student success:
- Alma helps manage student and family data efficiently, ensuring that every young woman’s progress is tracked and supported.
- A digital tool for managing hallway transitions fosters accountability and ensures seamless movement throughout the school day.
- A communication platform connects families with real-time updates and information, keeping them actively involved in their students’ educational journey.
- A classroom management system supports organization and transparency by tracking assignments, fostering academic excellence, and encouraging students to take ownership of their learning.
“These tools enable us to focus on what matters most: empowering our students to excel academically and personally,” Davis explains.
What Sets BELA Apart
BELA’s dedication to offering International Baccalaureate-level coursework and diplomas sets it apart in the Bed-Stuy community, where such opportunities are rare. Additionally, the school’s restorative approach to discipline prioritizes growth, reflection, and meaningful interventions, creating an environment where students feel supported and valued.
“Empowering our graduates goes beyond academics,” Davis adds. “Each graduate receives a laptop, symbolizing our commitment to their continued success beyond high school.”
At BELA, students are not only prepared to succeed in college but are also nurtured to develop as leaders who will make a meaningful impact in their communities. With a commitment to excellence, BELA is shaping a future where every young woman it serves thrives.
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