Ackerman names principals for Promise Academies

Superintendent Arlene Ackerman yesterday revealed the names of the principals who will run the six so-called Promise Academies that she and a small group of central office staff will oversee this fall.

Among them is Timothy Stults, principal of University City High, who will continue in that position under the turnaround model.

He was among 15 administrators the district disclosed lacked principal certifications, but who the district said have since completed the necessary paperwork to remain in their positions.

"Together, I am confident that we can make significant change, and create sustainable progress in student achievement for the benefit of all," Ackerman wrote in a letter sent to staff yesterday.

Some components of the academies will include a longer school day and year and Saturday instruction.

Staff and students at Promise Academies will be required to wear uniforms, recite a pledge daily and participate in enrichment programs such as photography, dance and martial arts.

Officials pegged 14 troubled schools for transformation under its Renaissance schools plan. Eight more were matched with one or more of six outside providers.

Besides Stults, the other new principals are:

Woolworth Davis, Ethel Allen Elementary

Dawn Moore, Dunbar Elementary

Milagros De Jesus, Clemente Middle

William Wade, Vaux High

Dywonne Davis-Harris, Potter-Thomas Elementary.