Ron Clark Academy
Empowering Educators
Written by Kensie Hamilton Fauber
Photos by Alex Wilson
F ew educators have transformed classrooms across the U. S. quite like Ron Clark. From his early years teaching in some of the most challenging schools in the nation to co-founding the internationally renowned Ron Clark Academy( RCA) in Atlanta, Clark has built his career on one simple principle: aim high and bring every student along. His energy, creativity and no-excuses commitment to excellence have transformed not only his own students’ lives but also the work of thousands of teachers who carry his methods back to their schools.
This past summer, 130 educators from West Virginia
Written experienced by Kensie this energy Hamilton firsthand Fauber when they traveled to
Atlanta for an all-expenses-paid training at RCA. The immersive two-day opportunity, which was part of Huntington Bank’ s Ignite the Classroom initiative, gave teachers the chance to learn, practice and bring home strategies
The Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, GA. designed to reimagine classrooms as places where students are engaged, challenged and inspired. For many, the experience was as emotional as it was transformational.
“ At least three West Virginia teachers hugged me crying when they were visiting in Atlanta,” Clark says.“ West Virginia teachers need this type of opportunity.”
Huntington Bank introduced Ignite the Classroom in 2024 as a way to connect educators with professional development opportunities that extend beyond traditional training. The initiative, funded by Huntington Bank and contributions from local businesses and organizations, is rooted in the belief that investing in teachers directly impacts the success of students.
70
WEST VIRGINIA EXECUTIVE