ABOUT US
Together, Michelle and April are leading the charge to establish Divergent Academy as a premier educational institution dedicated to empowering scholars and fostering creativity. With their combined expertise, passion, and dedication, they are shaping the future of education in South Los Angeles and beyond. Meet Our Faculty and Staff, Our team of dedicated educators and support staff are committed to providing students with a supportive and nurturing learning environment. With expertise in their respective fields and a passion for teaching and mentorship, they play a crucial role in guiding and inspiring students to reach their full potential. From experienced teachers to talented artists and industry professionals, our faculty and staff bring diverse perspectives and backgrounds to the classroom, enriching the educational experience and creating opportunities for students to learn, grow, and succeed. At Divergent Academy, we believe in the power of teamwork and collaboration to achieve our goals and make a positive impact in the lives of our students and the community. We are proud to introduce our team and invite you to join us on this exciting journey of learning and discovery.
OUR VALUES
OUR MISSION & VISION
Our mission is to provide a transformative education that empowers scholars from 8th to 12th grade to realize their full potential as artists, scholars, and changemakers. Through a comprehensive curriculum integrating acting, dancing, music, art design, copywriting, and other creative arts, we will foster creativity, critical thinking, and cultural awareness in every student. Rooted in the heart of South Los Angeles, CA, we strive to serve underserved communities by providing access to high-quality arts education and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
To cultivate a vibrant learning community where creativity thrives and every scholar is empowered to explore, express,
and excel.
We envision operating a private school catering to students in grades 8 through 12, offering a comprehensive educational experience that integrates both traditional academic subjects and the arts. At our institution, students will have the opportunity to explore and excel in disciplines such as Acting, Dancing, Music, and Creative Arts (including Art Design and Copywriting).Our primary goal is to provide accessible education to all students, regardless of their financial circumstances. To achieve this, we will adopt a sliding-scale tuition model, allowing families to contribute based on their ability to pay. Through fundraising efforts and community support, we will ensure that no student is denied the opportunity to attend our school due to financial constraints.
Are you ready to take the next step toward an extraordinary future? Our 2025 admissions are now open, offering you the opportunity to join a community of innovators, creators, and leaders. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, explore new passions, or redefine your career path, this is your moment to shine. Dive into a world of possibilities where your potential is limitless. Apply today, and let's build the future together!
ENGAGE
At Divergent School, we believe that every child deserves access to high-quality arts education, regardless of their background. As we prepare to welcome our next class of talented scholars in early 2025, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of creative education in South Los Angeles, Leimert Park, and beyond. Your generous donations will empower students to explore their artistic passions, develop critical skills, and contribute to a vibrant, thriving community. Together, we can transform lives and inspire the next generation of innovators and creators. Help us make arts education accessible to all—because a creative future starts with your support!
OUR BOARD
The Board of Directors at Divergent Academy plays a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction, governance, and financial sustainability of the school. By providing leadership, oversight, and support, the Board contributes to the school's mission of empowering scholars through creative education and making a positive impact in the community.
CHAIR PERSON
Emory Green
TREASURER
Daphne Daville
SECRETARY
Maieka Saint albin
MEMBER
Efuru Flowers
MEMBER
Michelle Lamese
Williams
MEMBER
Lemorn Gossett
STUDENTS SUCCESS STORIES & TESTIMONIALS
Attending Capital Prep Harlem was a transformative experience for me. The guidance and mentorship I received from Michelle Lamese Williams and April Moye helped me discover my potential and set me on the path to success. Their passion for education and belief in
every student's ability to excel is truly inspiring."
Student Testimonial: Jamal Carter, Former Student at Capital Prep Harlem
My daughter's experience at Capital Prep Harlem under the leadership of Michelle Lamese Williams and April Moye was truly exceptional. Their dedication to providing a supportive and nurturing environment for students made a significant impact on
our family. We are grateful for their leadership and commitment to educational excellence."
Parent Testimonial:
Sarah Johnson, Parent at
Capital Prep Harlem
While Divergent Academy is set to open in
2025, the leadership of Michelle Lamese
Williams and April Moye, as former founders
and leaders of Capital Prep Harlem, has
already left a lasting impact on students and
parents.
Illustrating Transformative Impact
Testimonials from parents and students of Capital Prep Harlem attest to the positive influence of Michelle and April's leadership,
highlighting their dedication to providing a supportive and high quality educational experience.
These testimonials serve as a testament to the transformative impact of Michelle and April's leadership, providing confidence in their ability to establish Divergent Academy as a premier educational institution dedicated to empowering scholars and
fostering creativity.
THANK YOU
On behalf of Divergent Academy, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to each and every one of you for taking the time to engage with us. Your presence and participation are deeply appreciated, and we value your interest and support as we embark on this exciting journey.
We are committed to providing accessible, high-quality arts education to scholars in South Los Angeles, Leimert Park, and the surrounding areas, and we invite you to join us in our mission to empower students and enrich the community through creative education.
Thank you once again for your time, attention, and support. We look forward to the possibility of collaborating with you and making a positive impact together.