DC Virgo Preparatory Academy has new plans for students | Education

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WECT) – DC Virgo Middle School closed in May of 2011 because of budget cuts, but it will reopen later this month with a new name, game plan and outlook for its students.

DC Virgo Preparatory Academy will officially open for class starting August 27. According to the school's website, its vision is to create a "high performing environment that prepares students to enter high school ready to achieve at the highest level."

Under the direction of Principal Eric Irizarry, students will be more plugged in and offer students a comprehensive education plan that will include six instructional-based practices.

"There is tremendous room for growth with our students," said Irizarry. "We really want to expose our students to just a variety of different activities that I think will help foster the whole child."

Every student at the charter school will be assigned an iPad to take home throughout the school year.

"One of my goals here is to make 21st century students and citizens," explained Irizarry. "The iPads are going to go a long way. We're going to use social media and technology to really build and foster the 21st century skill."

This added technology will make the school paperless and raise expectations of students in regards to using critical thinking skills to gather information.

"We have access to even more information, through the web and through the apps on the technology," explained teacher Lissa McIver. "I think it's an amazing opportunity to build on those skills that we already have."

During its first year, approximately 100-150 sixth grade students will attend the Academy. There will be an addition of one grade each year until full 6th-8th grade middle school enrollment. Since it is a charter school, DC Virgo Preparatory will have to stay within an assigned attendance zone for enrollment.

Family orientation for the upcoming school year will take place Thursday, August 16 5-8 p.m. while open house will take place Wednesday, August 22 from 5-7 p.m.

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