The Leona Group

09/02/2026

07/04/2026

Have a safe and happy holiday!

06/19/2026

Honor. Reflect. Celebrate.

06/02/2026

Mildred C. Wells Academy is a non-for-profit charter, that focuses on providing quality education to all students, regardless of background or economic status.

06/02/2026

Creating a Community-Centered Learning Space Our goal is to transform Wildwood Environmental Academy’s campus into a hub for learning and recreation that benefits both our students and the broader community. This vision includes creating interactive spaces— such as a greenhouse, butterfly habita...

05/19/2026

On May 18th at the Spirit of Leona celebration, we recognized award-winning students who embodied perseverance, compassion, motivation, and resilient character. The graduates shared their inspiring life stories and looked ahead to bright futures.

Congratulations to the 2026 Spirit of Leona recipients:
Jazmyn Dickey (Driven, Influential, Genuine) - ABTMH
Yaritzmar Jasso (Compassionate, Resilient, Determined) - CCAH
Daniel Sandoval (Leader, Advocate, Motivator) - CCAH
Mariah Gladney (Resilient, Advocate, Leader) - DPSA
Jorge Grimaldo-Granados (Perseverance, Hard-Working, Dedicated) - HoDAMH
Mitchell Childs (Proactive, Intelligent, Charismatic) - PAEMH
Seth Sage (Flexible, Determined, Pensive) - SAFE
Nehemiah Davis (Determined, Resilient, Funny) - WEA

05/14/2026

Yesterday, May 13th, The Leona Group had the privilege of recognizing our educators who go above and beyond; those who inspire curiosity, champion their students, and leave a lasting mark on our community. Our Teacher's Hall of Fame recipients represent the very best of what teaching looks like. They are dedicated professionals who bring passion and purpose to their classrooms every single day. We are proud to honor their commitment to excellence and their remarkable contributions to the students and families we serve.

Congratulations to each of our 2025-2026 Teacher Hall of Fame recipients:
Kelly Near of CCAM – Eighth Grade Social Studies
Jesica Poulos of SPA – Middle School Mathematics
Daniel Baker of ECUEA - Fourth Grade
Kirsten Cady of CCAUE – Reading Specialist
Carrie Dassow of CCAH – High School Mathematics
Mackayla Kearney-Connin of DISC - Autism Teacher
Zachary MacLean of HoDA – Band & STEM
Tatum Huling of WEA – Second Grade
Martha Garcia-Barba of CCALE – Kindergarten
Thank you for your hard work and dedication to equipping young minds for the future!

05/12/2026

Ms. Tatum Huling is an energetic team member that always brings a warm smile. Many at Wildwood are drawn to her positive energy, willing spirit and driven professionalism. Her dedicated focus to using data-driven instruction this year has resulted in many gains for her students. Students in Ms. Huling's classroom are held to high standards and her constant and fair delivery ensures their success. Whether she is managing core teaching responsibilities or bringing fancy footwork to school dances, Ms. Huling gives 100% dedication.

Ms. Huling is a consistent positive force in her students’ lives. “She provides high standards and the structure needed for success. Wildwood Environmental Academy second graders are blessed to have the inspiration and excellence Ms. Huling brings to the classroom every day,” says school leader Elizabeth Lewin.

05/11/2026

Mr. Zachary MacLean exemplifies dedication to education and to the students he serves, offering support during the school day and long after the final bell rings. He creates an environment where everyone feels encouraged to grow, take risks and strive for excellence. He volunteers his time for after-school events and plays a vital role in planning and implementing concerts that showcase talent and build community pride. His commitment, passion and impact make him truly deserving of this honor.

“A powerful example of Mr. MacLean’s impact is the former students who return years later to share their accomplishments. They often credit him for building their confidence, discipline and passion. They also speak about how the lessons they learned in his classroom have continued to influence their college journeys, careers and personal growth,” highlights school leader Ali Abdel.

05/10/2026

Intelligent, determined and passionate about advocacy. These are the words that come to mind when I think of Ms. Mackayla Kearney-Connin. Affectionately called Ms. K by her students, she does not back down from a challenge. She can always be counted on to have a thorough command of special education laws and requirements, and she never hesitates to do what is best for every child in her care.

Ms. Kearney-Connin has dedicated her career to deepening others' understanding of neurodivergent learners. She writes detailed, thoughtful Individualized Education Plans that will continue to guide and support students and their families long after their time at Discovery. Her philosophy centers on educating the whole child and empowering everyone who serves that child as well. “Ms. Kearny-Connin’s warm, approachable spirit draws teachers to her door regularly, eager to observe and learn techniques they can bring back to their own classrooms,” recognizes school leader Julieta Flowers.