With a strong, informed leader, a dedicated staff, and the right curriculum, meaningful school transformation can be a reality … even in the most challenging circumstances.

This short but powerful video tells the story of an inner-city elementary school in New Jersey where 60% of the students performed above grade level in math in 2019 — up from only 3% in 2014. And during the same period, there was an increase from 4% to 50% in reading performance.

In the words of principal, Susanna Tagoe, “”When you see our kids in action, and you see how much brilliance and how capable they are, then you understand not to limit them.” And she reminds us that “A zip code does not determine your ability.”

As we prepare to enter this new year, may you be inspired by the success of this school in the face of overwhelmingly negative odds.