Dear Families,
Welcome to Sagewood STEAM Academy! We are proud to introduce our tuition-free K–8 public charter school, serving families in East Columbus and surrounding communities.
At Sagewood STEAM Academy, our mission is to provide a safe, supportive, and academically rigorous environment where every child is encouraged to grow—intellectually, socially, and emotionally. Guided by our school motto, Where Courage Meets Compassion, we are committed to fostering a culture of high expectations, mutual respect, and meaningful learning.
Our educational approach integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) across subject areas, encouraging students to think critically, collaborate, and solve real-world problems. Instruction is grounded in hands-on, project-based learning that makes learning both engaging and relevant.
Students at Sagewood STEAM Academy benefit from:
• A whole-child approach that supports both academic and social-emotional growth
• Project-based, hands-on learning across all grade levels
• Small school setting with a close-knit, family-like atmosphere
• 1:1 Chromebook access and Smartboard technology in every classroom
• Free meals and student support services
We are excited to partner with families to build a strong school community from day one. At Sagewood STEAM Academy, your child’s journey is our shared commitment—thank you for joining us.
Sincerely,
Amanda Garner
Principal, Sagewood STEAM Academy
Amanda Garner, Principal
Amanda Garner brings over a decade of educational experience and a deep passion for student success to her role as principal of Sagewood Preparatory Academy. With a background in art, technology, and academic leadership, she is committed to fostering a supportive, high-achieving school culture where students and staff feel empowered to grow and thrive. Ms. Garner holds degrees in Graphic Design, Education, and School Administration from Southeast Missouri State University. Her leadership style is rooted in collaboration, clear expectations, and celebrating progress—creating an environment where every learner is inspired to reach their full potential.
Erin Johnson, Regional Vice President
Mrs. Johnson was born and raised in Kansas City, Kansas and moved from there to West Lafayette, Indiana to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in English Education from Purdue University. Mrs. Johnson has served in numerous roles in the educational setting, serving in Accel schools since 2014. Mrs. Johnson holds a Master’s in Educational Administration from Ball State University.
Staff Directory
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Amanda Garner
Principal -
Charbeth Cooke
Nurse
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Tameika Hendricks
Teacher , Grade Kindergarten -
Sheila Tanola
Teacher , Grade 1 -
Mavis Appiah
Teacher , Grade 2 -
April Escanilla
Teacher , Grade 3/4 -
Makayla Moore
Teacher , Grade 5/6 -
Daniel Jones
Teacher , Grade 7/8 -
Benji Burke
Specials Teacher -
Tiera Brown
Instructional Assistant -
Lorin Rivers
Instructional Assistant
Founded in 2014, ACCEL Schools is a K-12 public charter school management organization (CMO) serving students across the United States in brick-and-mortar, virtual, and hybrid school settings. We focus on improving academic outcomes of students regardless of geographic location or socioeconomic factors. The leadership team at ACCEL Schools has a combined 1000+ years of experience as global school management operators with expertise in curriculum research and design, assessment, student support services, and education consulting. Our entire team fundamentally believes that all children deserve a great education and students should be supported as they pursue a wide variety of post-secondary options. Our robust technology increases engagement, access to resources, efficiencies, and academic results helping our students become productive global citizens.
