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By submitting this form, I expressly consent and authorize ACCEL Schools to contact me at the number(s) provided via text or short message service (SMS) as well as by phone, regarding educational matters. I understand that these calls may be generated using automated technology and that message and data rates may apply, for which I will be solely financially responsible.

Dear Families,

Foundation Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school serving kindergarten through middle school students (grades K-8). Since opening our doors in 2007, we have provided a safe, secure, and successful learning environment to our students. We offer a well-rounded education including Art, PE, Spanish, STEM, and extra-curricular sports and clubs.

We partner with parents to support each child throughout each school year. This includes an individualized learning plan for each student that teachers and parents review together throughout the school year.

At Foundation Academy of Mansfield, we provide a safe and secure learning environment. We welcome you to explore Foundation Academy and look forward to the opportunity to serve your family.

Sincerely,
Ms. Joann Hipsher,
Retired Head of School

“We, the students, staff, and families of Foundation Academy, are committed to creating a safe and conductive learning environment of respect where children will develop good character and positive relationships while aspiring to achieve academic excellence.”

– Foundation Academy Mission Statement

Ms. Kimani - Head of School

Ms. Kimani joined Foundation Academy in 2007 as the Curriculum Implementation Specialist. She later became the Assistant Head of School, and as of July 1, 2017 was appointed to the Head of School. She is responsible for leading our school academically, including the professional development and progress of our faculty.
Ms. Kimani came to Foundation Academy with over 30 years of experience as a special education teacher, general education middle school teacher, assistant principal, and even a project manager in a software development company. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Florida as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education (K-12) and Elementary Education (1-8) from Dayton University. She brings with her a variety of talents such as playing the violin, traveling the world, and becoming a Hebrew scholar.

Joann Hipsher, Regional Vice President

Joann Hipsher worked in a traditional public school district for 30 years as a teacher and administrator prior to joining the charter school movement with Mosaica Education in 2007. She started Foundation Academy in 2007 serving as the Chief Administration Officer. When Mosaica was acquired by ACCEL Schools, she continued to serve in leadership as Principal of Foundation Academy, Director of Special Education, and currently, as Regional Vice President. Hipsher holds a Bachelor’s in Music and a Master’s in Special Education along with multiple certifications in Administration. With over 40 years in the field of education, Hipsher brings extensive experience and a passion for Arts education. Beloved by her Foundation Academy school community, the school building was named in her honor.

Staff Directory

Community School

Foundation Academy is a public, community school. We are our own school district sponsored by the Ohio Council of Community Schools (OCCS), which provides oversight and enforces academic, fiscal, and legal accountability. We are managed by ACCEL Schools, a high performing network of over 50 charter schools located throughout the United States.

Community Schools (Charter Schools) offer families an alternative to the local public school. Community schools are tuition-free, open to all students in the county, and focused on meeting student needs for success. Community schools are among the top-performing schools in the nation. Read more about charter schools.