A Founders Gratitude

by Dr. Chanel Gaither

November is Gratitude Month at The Worthy Educator!

As the founder of the first Black-owned international boarding school since 1970, and the first Black-owned boarding school in the state of Delaware. The word gratitude carries profound meaning for me. In writing this piece, I chose to express that gratitude through two letters: one to the first future graduating class of Ascend Legacy Academy’s young men, and another to their parents, who have entrusted us with their sons’ education, growth, and legacy.

I’m reminded of an African proverb that captures the essence of gratitude and purpose in education:

"Blessed are those who plant trees knowing that they shall never sit in the shade of their foliage."

After more than twenty years as an educator, my heart is full as I reflect on how what began as a seed, has grown into a full-scale educational model that celebrates, uplifts, and honors the brilliance of Black male scholars.

A Letter to Ascend Legacy Academy Parents

Dear ALA Parents,

Thank you for stepping out on faith and joining me on this purposeful journey as we have built and shaped this educational model together. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your decision to enroll your son at Ascend Legacy Academy - for believing in my vision as a founder, and for investing in an educational community that, though once more common generations ago, is rarely seen in today’s educational ecosystem.

You made the bold decision to seek something greater for your Black son-something that recognized his brilliance, valued his safety, nurtured his faith, and cultivated his development. You desired a model of education that emphasizes experiential learning, character formation, community engagement, and the affirmation of Black male joy.

I am deeply appreciative of your willingness to roll up your sleeves and get involved-whether serving as a chaperone for an international experience, volunteering at our annual male summit, or stepping in whenever we needed all hands on deck. I know this journey has not always been easy. Many of you began this experience without a clear roadmap, walking with us as we, in many ways, “built the plane while flying it.” Support systems for a model this bold simply did not exist, yet you remained steadfast.

Our three-day classroom model paired with two days of experiential learning in the field, our emphasis on hands-on growth, and our nontraditional approach to education all required courage-not only from our scholars, but from you. Thank you for being brave enough to unlearn many of the ideas about what “education” should look like, shaped by your own experiences. Thank you for sitting with that discomfort so your child could experience something transformative-something that challenges and redefines what education can be in this country.

Above all, thank you for your boldness and your belief. You wanted more for your son—an educational experience that allowed him to discover his purpose, affirm his identity, nurture his confidence, and envision the type of man he aspires to become: a young man of legacy, integrity, and purpose.

With heartfelt gratitude,

A Letter to Future Ascend Legacy Academy Graduates

Dear ALA Graduating Class of 2030,

Thank you for having the courage to step into this intentional learning community—one created specifically to nurture and empower you as young Black male scholars. Thank you for embracing every challenge with grace, joy, and purpose.

I am in awe of your academic excellence, your intellectual curiosity, and your courage to stand as pillars within your families and communities. You are living proof that when we design educational models centered on the holistic development of children, success, achievement, and growth are not mere possibilities-they are inevitable outcomes.

You embody every pillar of the ALA model:

• Ingenuity

• Scholarship

• Service & Community

• Global Learning

• Character

• Faith

Through your participation in our annual international experiential learning and research programs, and through the countless hours you have devoted to your own community-engaged research projects, you have demonstrated what it means to lead with intellect, integrity, and purpose. You have consistently challenged me as a leader, your input and ideas have helped to improve our curriculum and programming and your ability to work side by side with the faculty has been instrumental in improving our community.

As you go forth into the world beyond this community, know that I will always carry deep gratitude for each of you, for your commitment to building a legacy that extends far beyond yourselves. Reflect often on your journey here at Ascend Legacy Academy. Remember the lessons you’ve learned, the brotherhood you’ve built, and the values that have shaped you.

I will forever be thankful to you and to your parents for believing in this vision and for walking alongside me as we built something transformative together.

With pride and gratitude,

Dr, Chanel Gaither is the Founder of Ascend Legacy Academy, an academic enrichment institution that empowering middle and high school scholars through a culturally responsive curriculum, STEM-focused certification, and community-engaged research. As a seasoned educational leader and a strategic visionary, she designs and scales innovative academic programs that drive equity, access, and excellence for diverse student populations. You can contact Chanel via email here.

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