GCOA Announces AZCSP Grant Award and New School Director

We are

excited to announce receipt of the $1.25 million Arizona Charter School Program Grant (AZCSP). The purpose of the grant, which will provide the school with $250 thousand annually over 5 years, is to hold competitive applications for school leaders who will open schools serving disadvantaged Arizona students. The school, which has delayed opening until August of 2022 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, will focus on providing core curriculum through an outdoor, experiential model. Students will gain knowledge through collaboration and project-based learning. Students will also participate in a wide range of community-based activities and will spend an average of 40 percent of their school day outdoors.

GCOA is also pleased to announce the selection of Jim Walker as the school’s permanent director. Walker, who has nearly 30 years of experience in public education, previously served as the Superintendent for Page Unified School District. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and a Master of Arts in Educational Administration, both from Northern Arizona University. He also holds both a Principal and Superintendent Certificate.