There’s no denying that education opportunities have changed drastically over the years — better, for the most part. At least when it comes to choices. There are certainly challenges for parents who just simply want the chronic question in their minds resolved (sincerely): “Is this the best school for ‘my’ child?”
Families experience a multitude of options solicited to the table promising to equip and cultivate their child to a level of wholeness and preparedness for the world ahead — academically, socially, and emotionally. From public schools to private, charter, and even homeschool programs, the opportunities to receive an education can be limitless.
So what is the best (parents continue to ask)? Well, that depends on the specific needs of each learner. And parents have to be conscious of that, as well as have the drive for the continuous journey to seek out an excellent path for their child.
No matter what education community route is determined, most would agree that school organizations should all strive to be accountable to families, and more importantly, students.
That’s the baseline promise Journey Community Schools wants to keep.
Journey Community Schools provides tuition-free, public charter schools for students in grades K-8th, with locations positioned across the Memphis area, including Raleigh (Coleman Academy), East Memphis (East Academy), and its newest addition opening this fall in the Northeast Memphis area (Northeast Academy).
Courtesy of Journey Community Schools
Journey Community Schools establishes its foundation as a network dedicated to providing high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment for students with a mission that emphasizes academic excellence, character development, and community engagement, with a certainty to parents that students will reach their full potential. Moreover, the promise of achievement is extended by the organization to stakeholders attesting they will: engage families and communities; cultivate a safe, positive learning environment; and empower teachers and leaders to deliver.
Journey Northeast Academy is now enrolling its early learners — kindergarten through first grade — for the 2025-26 school year.
Memphis Parent asked longtime education leader and founding principal of Journey Northeast Academy, Reggie Jackson, about his role and what families and the community can expect from the school’s presence in the Sycamore View area of Memphis, narrowly neighboring Bartlett, TN.
Courtesy of Journey Community Schools
Reggie D. Jackson, founding principal of Journey East Academy
Memphis Parent: Journey Community Schools’ vision is to develop a community of lifelong learners who excel in all areas of life. Could you briefly share your current role at its newest location, Journey Northeast Academy, set to open in Fall 2025?
Reggie D. Jackson: At Northeast Academy, my role involves overseeing the development and implementation of the school’s educational programs, collaborating with staff to create a positive learning atmosphere, and engaging with families and community partners to promote student success and well-being. Additionally, my focus will involve implementing programs and practices that foster a safe and nurturing environment, as well as encouraging students to express their emotions and build positive relationships through engaging activities and meaningful conversations.
I am excited to contribute to the growth of this new location and support our commitment to nurturing the next generation of learners. We are dedicated to creating and maintaining a quality learning experience and embracing the genius of all our scholars.
Memphis Parent: Education has consistently evolved over the decades, from a time where there were only basic foundational necessities needed to be considered academically equipped, to a modernized effort of embedding inclusive opportunities for the whole child. What is Journey Community Schools’ philosophy for student success and what sets you apart from other schools?
Reggie D. Jackson: Journey Community Schools is devoted to cultivating an inclusive and supportive educational experience that prioritizes social-emotional learning and the emotional well-being of every student. Our holistic approach emphasizes educating the whole child, understanding that social-emotional skills are vital for both academic success and personal growth.
By cultivating a culture in which what is seen — the supportive classroom atmosphere; what is said — the encouragement and affirmation among peers and staff; and what is done — the intentional teaching of social skills and emotional awareness — we empower students to thrive in all aspects of their education.
We are committed to exposing students to foundational literacy and mathematical skills that are essential for their success throughout their lifetime.
Our approach guarantees that students are not only building their academic competencies but are also equipped with the skills to manage their emotions, build positive relationships, and develop resilience. Through this comprehensive focus on both quality education and emotional well-being, we aim to prepare our students to navigate life’s challenges successfully and become well-rounded, capable individuals.
Courtesy of Journey Community Schools
Memphis Parent: Journey is described as a place of culture that believes academic success is derived from a collective support system — a shared responsibility of students, staff, parents, and the community. Describe more about what that means to you as a parent and leader.
Reggie D. Jackson: As a parent and leader, I wholeheartedly believe we are forever learning, and this belief underscores my view that education is the cornerstone of future success and a balanced life. The concept of a journey as a place of culture, where academic success is rooted in a collective support system, resonates deeply with me.
To me, this collective approach means that students, staff, parents, and the community share a vital responsibility for fostering an environment where every child can thrive. As a parent, my desire is for my child to be academically challenged while being nurtured in a setting that emphasizes support and inclusivity. I want my child to feel that they are part of a community that values their unique contributions and encourages their growth.
When schools prioritize a culture of collaboration, they create strong connections among students, educators, and families. This interconnectedness not only enhances academic engagement but also instills a sense of belonging. I believe children flourish in environments where they feel safe to express themselves, explore new ideas, and take intellectual risks.
As a leader, I understand the importance of advocating for a shared vision that promotes both academic rigor and emotional support. By working together with educators and community members, we can create programs and initiatives that challenge our children to reach their highest potential while ensuring they feel valued and supported.
Ultimately, I see this collective commitment as not merely beneficial for individual students, but essential for cultivating a thriving educational community. In this way, we not only prepare our children for future success, but also teach them the invaluable lesson of the importance of collaboration and support in achieving their dreams.
Memphis Parent: How have you seen education evolve over your career of teaching-learning and leadership?
Reggie D. Jackson: Over my 27 years in education, I have seen the approach to teaching and learning evolve beautifully, reflecting not just the needs of our students, but also the communities we serve. It has been heartwarming to witness a shift towards more student-centered learning, where the focus is on engaging each child in their unique educational journey. In earlier years, traditional lecture methods dominated the classroom. Now, we encourage students to take an active role in their learning, allowing them to explore, ask questions, and collaborate with their peers. This transformation highlights the understanding that every child learns differently, and it’s essential to embrace their individual paths.
The role of technology in education has also been remarkable. With the advent of digital tools, students can connect with information, resources, and each other in ways we never imagined. Technology has opened doors to personalized learning experiences, making education more interactive and accessible, which is truly exciting for our students and their families.
There’s a growing recognition of the importance of social and emotional well-being in education. We understand for children to flourish academically, their emotional needs must also be met. Our schools are evolving to create nurturing environments where every child feels safe, valued, and understood, which is so crucial for fostering their overall growth." - Reggie D. Jackson
Leadership in this ever-changing landscape is both a science and an art. It requires a deep understanding of educational practices while also embracing the emotional intelligence necessary to connect with students, staff, and families. Effective leaders reflect on their practices, adapt their approaches, and prioritize building strong relationships within their communities. By fostering an environment of trust and collaboration, we can create a positive impact on the lives of our students and support their success in every way.
The journey of education is one of continuous growth and adaptation. As we look ahead, I am hopeful and excited to continue working alongside our dedicated educators, supportive parents, and remarkable students to ensure we create a vibrant and inclusive learning community.
Memphis Parent: Parents struggle every day in fully understanding what equates to a great educational path and the results thereof. What should parents expect from educational institutions for the role they play in their child's lifelong learning, not only academic achievement, but holistic?
Reggie D. Jackson: As an experienced educational leader, I understand how challenging it can be for parents to navigate their child's educational journey. It's normal to wonder what truly makes for a great educational experience — and how schools can support your child in achieving not just academically, but in all areas of life.
When considering what to expect from educational institutions, I believe it’s important to look for a focus on the whole child. This means schools should create warm and welcoming environments where every child feels safe, valued, and respected. Such an atmosphere encourages students to explore, take risks, and grow into confident individuals.
In addition to academics, parents should seek out programs that foster creativity, social skills, and emotional well-being. Look for schools that engage students in hands-on learning and encourage critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving. A well-rounded curriculum can include physical education and social-emotional learning — all essential for supporting children as they develop into well-rounded individuals.
Communication is key in this journey. You should expect open and honest conversations with educators about your child’s progress and development. When schools keep parents informed and involved, it helps create a supportive community where everyone is working together for the child’s success.
Throughout my career, I have seen how strong leadership can transform educational experiences. Dedicated educators are continually learning and growing themselves, ensuring they provide the best possible education to their students. When teachers are inspired and supported, it positively impacts the entire school environment.
Ultimately, I encourage parents to view schools as partners in their child's lifelong learning journey. By working together with educators, we can help our children thrive, not only in their academic pursuits but also in becoming happy, healthy, and engaged members of society.
Courtesy of Journey Community Schools
Memphis Parent: How would you attest to Journey Northeast Academy being the best choice for students' educational journeys? What sets you apart from other schools alike?
Reggie D. Jackson: Choosing the right school for your child is a significant decision, and we understand how important it is to find a nurturing and supportive environment. At Journey Community Schools Northeast Academy, we strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where each child feels valued and encouraged to grow.
Our caring approach emphasizes not only academic success, but also emotional well-being. We know that happy, confident students thrive; therefore, we focus on developing the whole child. With smaller class sizes, our teachers can provide personalized attention, helping each student learn at their own pace and explore their interests." - Reggie D. Jackson
We believe that education goes beyond textbooks and tests. Our holistic curriculum incorporates essential skills like critical thinking, teamwork, and emotional intelligence, sparking a love for learning in a fun and engaging way. Our hands-on activities encourage students to explore, discover, and express themselves creatively.
Community is at the heart of what we do. We value strong partnerships with families and local organizations, making education a collaborative journey. We invite parents to be an integral part of our school community, ensuring together we support your child’s development and success.
Our dedicated teachers are passionate about nurturing young minds. They continually seek new ways to inspire and motivate students, focusing on building a positive, encouraging learning environment.
Additionally, we embrace technology as a vital tool in modern education. By integrating innovative resources into our lessons, we prepare our students to succeed in a rapidly changing world while equipping them with the skills they'll need for the future.
In essence, Journey Community Schools Northeast Academy is not just a place for academic learning; it’s a community where children can grow, thrive, and discover their potential. We warmly welcome you to join our family as we embark on this exciting educational journey together!
Journey Northeast Academy will open its doors this fall for the 2025-26 school year. Families interested in enrollment for kindergarten through first grade spots should visit myjourneycs.org/enroll, or call (901) 646-6530.