Family Resources
Check out our Family Resource Center to view important information including your school calendar, transportation, uniform info, and more!
Academic Excellence, Responsible Citizenship
Together, our Citizens schools have developed a national reputation for their commitment to academic excellence and responsible citizenship. Our remarkable faculty and staff, board, parents, families, community members, and students work hard every day to make Citizens Leadership Academy East among the best places in Cleveland to learn and grow as young students and citizens. If you have any questions or would like to come in for a visit, let us know!
Preparing Civically Engaged Leaders
In and out of the classroom, hands-on learning is an essential part of our curriculum. Every year, we focus on "essential questions" and dig deep into issues that matter to our community. Our mission is to prepare our students to lead in academics, service, and civic engagement during high school, college, and beyond.
Our Mission
CLA East prepares middle school students to lead in academics, service, and civic engagement during high school, college, and beyond.
Our Approach
Learning is hands-on, and the city is our lab. Building on the Citizens elementary approach, scholars focus on academic rigor and civic engagement.
Innovative Academic Program
Core Skill Building and Learning Expeditions
The Citizens Leadership Academy curriculum is designed to prepare our students to succeed in rigorous college prep high schools, and then in college and in the 21st century job market. The curriculum is a synergistic approach based on two discrete learning models: Core Skill Building and Expeditionary Learning. Through this two-pronged educational model, CLA students will be well prepared for the Ohio state tests, and they will also be well grounded in the critical 21st century skills framework.
The Basics
Grades: 6-8
Phone: (216) 367‐9392
Fax: (216) 761-7398
12523 Woodside Ave.
Cleveland, Ohio 44108
Principal
Andesia DeJesus
Stay connected!
Exceptional Student Education
Everyone learns here! We celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion of all types of learners and we work hard to make sure that our schools are brave spaces where exceptional learners are supported and have all the resources needed to reach their full potential. Learn more about Exceptional Student Education at Breakthrough here.
Our ESE program offers Extension Classrooms at CLAE, which provide full-time small group instruction.
Engaging, Interactive Remote Learning
We know that remote learning takes a major commitment from families and scholars, and we’re here to make it as easy as possible while continuing to provide an excellent education.
We provide all of the technology, wifi accessibility, and tech-support needed to facilitate remote learning and we also offer grab-and-go meal kits each week to all scholars.
Extracurriculars
We are currently planning our extracurriculars at CLAE. Examples of likely extracurriculars from our founding CLA Campus include:
- Boys/Girls Basketball
- Math Hoops
- Lego Robotics
- Cheerleading
- Drama Club
- Service Club
- Chess Club
After School
We have after school tutoring for students looking for extra support with reading and math, as well as Homework Club for those who need a quiet place to finish homework. Additionally, we have an after school partnership with the Boys & Girls Club on Broadway, and provide transportation there after school every day.
Parent Committee
Thanks to all the parents and family members that make up our PAC. All families welcome.
Important Links
Dress Code & School Uniforms
For more information, visit our Uniform page.
Policies + Notices
Please find a list of our school’s policies below. If you have any questions, just let us know!
- Policy 204.14 – Career Advising & Student Success Plan
- Policy 453 - Wellness Policy
- Policy 203.1 Parent and Family Engagement in Title I Programs
- Policy 242 - Student Assessment and Academic Prevention
- Policy 227 - Child Find Policy
View All Other School Policies Here
General Notice of Non-Discrimination
The School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, sexual orientation, or age in its programs and activities.
Board List & Calendar
We're so thankful to our all-volunteer Board of Directors. Please find our latest board member list & calendars here:
Annual Reports
- Annual Report 2019-20
- Annual Report 2018-19
- Annual Report 2017-18
- Annual Report 2016-17
- Annual Report 2015-16
- Annual Report 2014-15
- Annual Report 2013-14
Annual Sponsor Report
MEET THE PRINCIPAL!
Andesia DeJesus
Andesia DeJesus is a Kentucky native that moved to Cleveland, Ohio, in 2016. Prior she worked as a teacher in Kentucky, Texas, and New Jersey before calling Cleveland home. Her journey in education allowed her to work and support schools in various states and thus amplified her passion for ensuring all students are receiving a quality education that will allow them to compete for future opportunities on a national level. While in Cleveland, Andesia has worked as a teacher, leader, and instructional coach before joining Breakthrough. A top priority for the 2021-2022 school year is to provide a place where students feel equipped to take ownership of their learning in a safe and supportive environment. Along with a safe and supportive environment, Andesia cares deeply that student instruction is: engaging, culturally relevant, and paired with strong leadership and character development. More than anything, she is excited to learn more from students, staff, and families detailing their aspirations for the upcoming school year and beyond.
Up Next:
Discover Citizens Academy East
Discover Citizens Academy East, our K-5 elementary school, co-located at the same campus.
MEET FRANK!
A Student at CLAE
Hear from CLAE middle schooler, Frank, to discover what he loves most about Citizens Leadership Academy East, his favorite things about school, and a glimpse into what makes Breakthrough Public Schools such a special place!
We offer an innovative and engaging curriculum for all scholars, including support for all learners, and unique programs such as our high school readiness program, after-school activities, and enrichment programming.
See Citizens Leadership Academy East In Action!
