Families searching for the right kindergarten often want more than a traditional classroom. They want a school that nurtures creativity, supports academic growth, and provides a safe, welcoming environment—without the cost of tuition.

Arts Integrated Learning Model

An arts-focused education helps young learners develop confidence, creativity, and strong communication skills—while also supporting literacy, math, and critical thinking.

At Academy of Arts & Technology, students benefit from:

· A tuition-free public charter school education

· An arts-integrated learning model that blends academics with creativity

· A supportive school culture built on expression, curiosity, and respect

· Developmentally appropriate learning designed for young children

Why Families Choose Us

At Academy of Arts & Technology, creativity is more than an activity—it’s part of our daily learning culture. Our classrooms encourage students to explore ideas, express themselves, and build confidence through artistic experiences.

Families choose our school because we offer:

· Safe, welcoming classrooms

· Caring educators experienced in early childhood learning

· Creative opportunities through visual art, music, movement, and performance

· A calm, inclusive school environment where children feel supported

When students feel safe and encouraged, they are more willing to take creative risks and grow as learners.

The Kindergarten Experience

Our kindergarten program balances academic instruction with creative exploration. Students develop early literacy and math skills while also learning how to collaborate, communicate, and express themselves.

Kindergarten students experience:

· Literacy and math instruction aligned to standards

· Arts-integrated lessons that support learning across subjects

· Social-emotional learning and relationship building

· Time to move, play, and create in a structured environment

This approach helps students develop both academic readiness and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.

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Give your child the opportunity to learn, create, and grow in a tuition-free arts-focused school environment.

Joann Hipsher, Regional Vice President at Academy of Arts & Technology, was recognized with the prestigious Jon Natko Commemorative Leadership Award at this year’s ALIVE25 Summit, the annual gathering of ACCEL Schools leaders from across the country. This award honors leaders who exemplify ACCEL’s core values of putting students first, integrity, innovation, and community focus.

“I’m inspired by Joann’s dedication to our schools and her unwavering commitment to students,” said Ron Packard, CEO of ACCEL Schools. “She leads with integrity and compassion, and we’re proud to recognize her outstanding leadership.”

Held annually, the Accelys celebrate the standout achievements of educators across ACCEL Schools’ network of 85+ public charter schools, which serve students from PreK through 12th grade. Awards honor excellence in areas like student attendance, teacher commitment, enrollment growth, financial stewardship, and academic progress.

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Ready to join our award-winning school?

We are thrilled to announce an exciting new program coming to the Academy of Arts and Technology for the Fall 2025 semester! We’re partnering with U.S. Drone Soccer to bring an innovative and engaging drone soccer program to our 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students.

Drone Soccer is a unique educational robotics competition that is also an internationally sanctioned team sport by the World Air Sports Federation. Imagine students flying RC quadcopter drones, encased in protective cages, in full-contact gameplay as they ram and block each other in midair to score goals!

This program is so much more than just a game. It’s a fantastic opportunity for our students to build, program, and repair professional-grade drones while learning valuable skills towards high-paying aerospace careers. This partnership will help expand aerospace workforce development pipelines to grades 6-12, improving Career and Technical Education and postsecondary enrollment.

U.S. Drone Soccer provides comprehensive educator training and support to help establish new aviation career pathways with real-world applications. The program is inclusive and accessible, encouraging diverse coed teams and aiming to retain girls and students from historically excluded communities.

Our students will engage with STEM and Career and Technical Education in a dynamic way. The program offers lesson guides for classroom enrichment, student camps, or after-school competitive clubs with repeatable success for educators. Safety is a priority, with safe flight operations taking place indoors within a netted enclosure that is exempt from FAA restrictions, meaning no registration or credentials are required.

And for those with a competitive spirit, every student has a path to the World Cup! This year’s champion team will represent the United States at an international youth tournament.

To get a better idea of what Drone Soccer is all about, check out this trailer: https://youtu.be/gh-I9qe4-0c

We can’t wait to see our students soar with this incredible new opportunity!

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The Academy of Arts & Technology is a tuition-free K-8 public charter school located in Marion, Ohio. We are dedicated to providing a well-rounded education that immerses students in fine arts, technology, and hands-on learning. Our focus on visual and performing arts, technology integration, and project-based learning empowers students to explore their talents while building a strong academic foundation. We offer a dynamic school environment where children can learn, create, and thrive.

PARENT PORTAL

You will need the student code from your school office to sign up.

• Check your child’s grades
• Communicate with teachers
• Update personal information

Sign up using an internet browser! Access the Parent Portal

Download Flyer (PDF)

We are thrilled to announce our school’s significant and exciting transformation! Marion Preparatory Academy is evolving into the Academy of Arts and Technology. This name perfectly reflects our enhanced commitment to providing a dynamic and future-focused education for the children of Marion, Ohio.

Our mission has always been to serve the families of Marion by offering a high-quality, tuition-free education. After carefully considering and listening to our community’s needs, we’ve decided to expand and refine our focus. The Academy of Arts and Technology will provide an even more comprehensive and engaging learning experience, preparing students for success in the 21st century and beyond.

What Remains the Same?

• Tuition-Free K-8 Education: We remain committed to providing accessible, high-quality education to all students in Marion.
• Principal Hutton will continue to lead our school.
• Our location will remain the same: 1001 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Marion, OH.

We will focus on Arts, Technology, and Career Exploration: Our core values of fostering creativity, technological literacy, and career investigation remain at the heart of our curriculum. We’re introducing a vibrant arts focus for our youngest learners in grades K-4. Students will delve into general art practices, exploring various mediums and techniques. We are also dedicated to showcasing their talent through regular art shows and gallery displays within our building, providing a platform for creativity and expression.

Students will experience cutting-edge technology across all grade levels. Enhanced technology classes will equip them with essential digital skills, and we’re introducing 3D printing, which will allow them to design and create tangible projects. Prepare for the thrill of Drone Soccer! Middle school students will learn to build and program robotic spheres, compete in exciting soccer matches, and foster teamwork and problem-solving skills.

Finally, our dedicated career exploration program for 7th and 8th-grade students will focus on in-depth career study, helping them discover their passions and potential pathways. We will provide real-world connections and experiences to help them understand the many options available.

Our new name, Academy of Arts and Technology, embodies our vision of a school where artistic expression and technological innovation go hand-in-hand. We believe that creativity and technology are essential skills for success in today’s world, and we provide our students with the tools they need to thrive.

This transformation reflects our ongoing commitment to better serve the families of Marion, Ohio. We believe that the Academy of Arts and Technology will provide a unique and enriching educational experience that will empower our students to become lifelong learners and successful contributors to our community.

We are incredibly excited about this new chapter and look forward to welcoming you to the Academy of Arts and Technology! We are looking forward to a great school year!

Sincerely,
Principal Jennifer Hutton

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Join us at the Academy of Arts and Technology this fall!

January is School Board Appreciation Month

As we celebrate School Board Appreciation Month, we want to take a moment to recognize the invaluable contributions of our dedicated Board of Directors. Their unwavering commitment to our charter school community has been instrumental in shaping our school into a thriving hub of learning and growth.

Why Charter Schools Matter

Our charter school offers a unique educational experience that is:

• Tuition-Free: Accessible to all families in our community, regardless of their financial situation.
• Safe and Secure: Providing a nurturing and supportive environment where students can learn and thrive.
• Community-Focused: Partnering with parents, teachers, and the broader community to create a strong educational foundation for our students.

The Role of Our Board

Our Board of Directors plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of our school. They:

• Set the Vision: Establish a clear and inspiring vision for our school’s future.
• Make Informed Decisions: Carefully consider all options and make sound decisions that benefit our students.
• Provide Oversight: Monitor the school’s operations and financial health.
• Advocate for Our Students: Represent our school’s interests at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Recruit and Support Quality Staff: Help attract and retain talented educators who are passionate about our mission.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Board members for their tireless efforts. Their dedication and expertise have made a significant impact on the lives of our students.

Let’s take a moment to thank our Board members for their invaluable contributions. Their commitment to our school’s mission is truly inspiring.

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Experience the Pillars of Educational Success! Begin your application today:

When it comes to education, a great start can make all the difference. Our students excel with the support of nurturing teachers, a safe and secure environment, and individualized learning experiences. This solid foundation sets them up for growth and success from the very beginning. Explore the opportunities Foundation Academy has to offer your child!

Early Learning Programs

• Free, full-day Kindergarten

Well-Rounded Academics

• Emphasis on English Language Arts fosters early literacy
• Extra instruction time in Math & Reading builds strong foundational academic skills
• Performing Arts instruction including music
• PE & Sports promotes fitness, health & teamwork
• Classroom technology includes 1:1 Chromebooks to accelerate learning
• 1:1 Chromebook access

Special Features

• Caring, empowering teachers & staff
• Safe, secure campus
• Outdoor playground, gym, library, science lab & more
• Free breakfast & lunch

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The future is bright with Marion Preparatory Academy! Start your application today:

With the release of Ohio School Report Cards on Friday, September 13th, we are excited to celebrate the academic achievement of our students and staff during the 2023-24 school year.

Congratulations Marion Prep for receiving:

• 3 stars on Progress
• 3 stars on Gap Closing

To learn more about school report cards, visit the Ohio Department of Education website.

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Ready to enroll in our high-achieving school?

In an exciting move to support students and families, Marion Preparatory Academy proudly announces that school supplies will be provided for all fully enrolled student for the upcoming school year. Check school supplies off the list! Each classroom at Marion Prep will be stocked with fresh, new school supplies at the start of the school year!

ENROLL TODAY: MARIONPREP.ORG/APPLY

It’s Teacher Appreciation Week, and we’re taking a moment to amplify our incredible instructional staff!

Teachers join our school with a desire to make a difference in the lives of children in our community. With hearts of gold, teachers create nurturing classroom environments, develop inspiring lesson plans, adapt instruction to meet individual needs, capitalize on real life teaching moments, support the social-emotional development of students & so much more.

Every school year, our teachers push themselves to the limit to reach each student in their care & to make a difference in each life. We are PROUD, APPRECIATIVE, and ADMIRING of our teachers for their meaningful work this school year. Please join us in thanking a teacher this week!