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Learn Our Story

Founders

ABOUT US         

Our History 

Don and Karen Belknap founded A+ Charter Schools, Inc. and the two charter school districts it currently operates: 

A+ Academy and Inspired Vision Academy

Each school district houses an elementary school (grades PK-6), and a secondary school (grades 7-12).  

With the help of several members of their family, the Belknaps began the schools as a means to improve the lives of the children in Southeast Dallas.  The first school was established in 1998 as Rylie Academy, and in the year 2000 became known as A+ Academy.Over the next few years they worked to establish the other four schools: A+  Academy Secondary, A+ Academy Elementary, Inspired Vision Academy Elementary, and Inspired Vision Academy Secondary.

Mrs. Belknap remains actively involved in the schools as the Founder and participates in various school activities.


Our Core Values 


 

Whole Child Learning

Our Mission

A+ Charter Schools, Inc.

Empowering . . . Modeling . . . Impacting

Academic Excellence

Academic Excellence

We foster a culture of high expectations, encouraging students to reach their full potential through a rigorous and engaging curriculum that promotes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Embracing Innovation

Our Vision

The mission of A+ Charter Schools, Inc. is to develop students with integrity who are aware of their potential and able to obtain high goals through innovative educational programs.

Our Impact 

Led by Innovation. Strengthened by Tradition.
 

A+ Charter Schools were founded in 1998 to provide an alternative educational choice for low-income and underserved families in Southeast Dallas and Pleasant Grove. By establishing public, tuition-free charter schools, we have empowered local families to take an active role in their children’s education, giving them the ability to demand better opportunities and choose a school that best meets their needs. Our schools have become strong community partners, providing students with the tools to succeed beyond high school and offering a safe, structured environment where creativity and intellectual curiosity can thrive.

We are deeply involved with local organizations such as the Kiwanis Club of Pleasant Grove, the Southeast Dallas Chamber, the Salvation Army, the Southeast Dallas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the Dallas Police Department. Through leadership roles on boards, volunteer efforts, hosting events, and problem-solving initiatives, we work together with these groups to create a greater positive impact in our community.

A+ Charter Schools also contribute significantly to the local economy. With over 400 employees, we are committed to hiring highly qualified teachers, leaders, and support staff to meet the growing demands of student enrollment.

The impact of A+ Charter Schools is most evident in our students. We provide an individualized, rigorous education that blends innovation with traditional values, all within a safe, family-like environment. Our mission is to offer every child a well-rounded education and the knowledge they need to become successful, self-sufficient adults.