Meet Ms. McClendon
I am an academic researcher, nonprofit executive, and early‑childhood education advocate committed to ensuring that every child has access to a nurturing, high‑quality learning environment. My professional journey has taken me through instructional design, youth development, arts education, and community‑based programming—experiences that shaped my belief that children thrive when they are supported academically, creatively, and emotionally.
As the Founder and Executive Director of the Believe & Achieve Foundation, I have spent years designing programs that uplift children and families through arts‑integrated learning, enrichment opportunities, and community partnerships. My work has included securing competitive funding, expanding access to dance and creative arts education, and building programs that strengthen confidence, discipline, and self‑expression in young learners.
My academic research focuses on early literacy, phonemic awareness, and evidence‑based instructional practices for preschool and early elementary students. This research, combined with my hands‑on experience working with children and families, revealed a clear need: many students were entering school without the foundational skills, individualized support, or culturally responsive learning environments they deserved.
That realization is what led me to establish Believe Preparatory Academy.
I founded Believe Preparatory Academy because I believe every child—regardless of background—should experience a school where they feel seen, supported, and capable of achieving excellence. Our mission is rooted in the idea that learning should be joyful, rigorous, and grounded in research‑based practices. At Believe Prep, we integrate literacy, movement, creativity, and character development to nurture the whole child. We are building a school community where families feel valued, teachers feel empowered, and students grow into confident, curious, and compassionate learners.
My purpose is simple: to create a place where children can believe in themselves, discover their gifts, and achieve their fullest potential. Believe Preparatory Academy is the realization of that purpose—and the beginning of a legacy of educational excellence for generations to come.
