The African-Centered College Preparatory Academy is not just a school, but the result of 24 years of hard work and dedication by the Kansas City, Mo., community. Beginning in fall 2012, the school will offer innovative, college prep instruction to students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade according to the principles of Ma'at and the Nguzo Saba. However, the story began much earlier.
African-centered education in the Kansas City Public Schools began in 1988 with the J.S. Chick African Shule, providing a unique cultural education to nearly 350 students. Since then the program has evolved into a pre-kindergarten through 12th grade program servicing more than 920 students.
The latest evolution of the program, African-Centered Prep, continues the strong cultural aspects of the existing program with a revamped curriculum and the support services offered to all KCPS students. The school is led by a principal and advised by a Council of Elders (Wazuri) that offers input and guidance on every aspect of school operations.
Principal's Bio
Joseph Williams III joined the Kansas City Public Schools (KCPS) as the principal of African-Centered College Preparatory Academy in May 2012. “I’m excited to be in Kansas City and leading such an innovative and promising program. Students, parents, and I will work closely to grow African-Centered Prep into one of top schools in the region,” Williams said. “It’s time to go to work on behalf of students.”
Williams is originally from Kansas City, Mo., and has worked as an educator for the past 18 years. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Liberty University and began his teaching career as a special education teacher in 1994. Williams earned his master’s degree in School Leadership from Nova Southeastern University and is currently completing his dissertation for his doctorate degree.
Williams moved into school administration after 11 years of teaching, when he was named assistant principal at Dutchtown High School in Atlanta, Ga., for the 2005-2006 school year. He has been a school administrator for the past three years at Quitman County K-12 School. As principal, Williams was instrumental in helping Quitman K-12 earn AYP, and he was successful in significantly improving the high school graduation rate at the school.
Principal Williams will keep office hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 - 10 a.m. and 4 - 5 p.m. Please call 418-1078 or email
jwilliamsIII@kcpublicschools.org to reserve your time.
