"I Am A Winner" Daily Affirmation for Future Leaders

"I Am a Winner" is the framework of our educational approach to uplift and empower at West End School.

"I Am a Winner" is a daily affirmation that is foundational to our educational approach at West End School. Every morning, our scholars gather as a school community and recite the creed. This creed helps our scholars see themselves as leaders who take accountability for their own learning journey. It helps our students internalize how they will make their impact on their life and community. Like many parts of inner-city America, the West End of Louisville is known for gun violence, poverty, unemployment and many other negative connotations. The West End School proves daily that does not have to be the expectation. We strive for academic excellence that prepares our racially, culturally, and socio-economically diverse students with the skills and confidence to chase the paths they choose – college, career, and beyond. We offer an academically rigorous program in a safe, structured environment where students become life-long learners and are challenged to excel. Classes are small—fifteen students or fewer—allowing for individualized learning. Every child at West End School attends on a scholarship. 100% of the proceeds from "I Am a Winner," will go towards funding student scholarships and operations at West End School. To learn more about West End School, and our amazing scholars, please go to www.westendschool.org.

"I am driven to change the world of education." —Dr. Gregory E. Ross In June 2023, Dr. Gregory E. Ross was appointed President-Head of School at West End School in Louisville, Kentucky. Formerly, he was the Superintendent of Danville Independent Schools (KY). He is also the founder and owner of ACE Educational Services, which provides national training, development, and consulting for professional educators using research-based strategies and culturally responsive practices. Dr. Ross has received both national and state honors, including the Dr. Samuel Robinson Award from the Kentucky Department of Education for "Leadership, Commitment, and Service Toward Equity and Opportunity in Education" in 2012 and named an Ed Trust Exemplar School Leader in 2013. Dr. Ross says, "I am driven to change the world of education." In collaboration with the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) and the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO), he has created educational change through teacher-leader programs and addressing the needs of poorly performing schools. As a leading African American educator, Dr. Ross has achieved many firsts, including the first African American graduate from Western Kentucky University Doctoral Program and the first African American Superintendent of Danville Independent Schools. Dr. Ross has spoken internationally on education reform, diversity, equity, and effective instructional pathways. Dr. Ross lives in New Albany, Indiana, with his wife, Laura, and his son, True. He enjoys spending time with his family, playing a fierce game of basketball, and connecting with his mother and brothers. In his spare time, Dr. Ross writes and illustrates children's books.