The smiles were wide and the laughter contagious as University of Tennessee at Chattanooga basketball players transformed into Santa’s helpers at Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy (CGLA) on Dec. 19. Students from both CGLA and Montessori Elementary Highland Park (MEHP) were treated to a special gift-giving event held at the CGLA Hutton Gym at 1800 Vance Ave.
From 11:55 a.m. to 2 p.m., the award-winning charter school partnered with Be The Change Youth Initiative Program to create a memorable and heartwarming holiday experience. Every student, from elementary learners to high school seniors, received wrapped presents distributed by the collegiate athletes, embodying the spirit of giving that defines the season.
Be The Change Youth Initiative, an organization dedicated to improving youth mental well-being, operates on the belief that “all youth should be seen, heard and loved.” This core principle guides its work, which provides opportunities for artistic expression, musical exploration and leadership development.
The event perfectly aligned with CGLA’s innovative approach to education. As Tennessee’s first single-gender public school, CGLA has garnered numerous accolades, including recognition as a Tennessee Reward School and a recent ranking as #18 among Tennessee High Schools by US News and World Report.
The holiday celebration showcased the school’s commitment to community engagement and holistic student development. CGLA, which emphasizes STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics), has consistently demonstrated excellence in preparing young women for future success, earning Tennessee Value-Added Assessment System (TVAAS) Level 5 School designation multiple times since 2012.
This festive gathering represented more than just gift-giving; it exemplified the power of community partnerships in enriching students’ educational experience. Through collaborations with organizations like Be The Change Youth Initiative, CGLA continues to provide its students with opportunities that extend beyond traditional academics, fostering personal growth and leadership skills in a supportive environment. On Monday, July 27, 2009, 75 girls made history by becoming the inaugural class of the Chattanooga Girls Leadership Academy.