Bowling Green Independent Schools (BGISD) has announced a new chapter for its newcomer program. Beginning with the 2026-27 school year, the program formerly known as Teranga Academy will officially transition to Purples Academy.
While the district’s partnership with Fugees Family, Inc. has come to a close, BGISD’s unwavering commitment to supporting, educating, and empowering students remains the top priority. The program will continue its mission: providing support for Bowling Green Junior High and Bowling Green High School students who are new to the United States, ensuring they have a strong path to graduate as proud Bowling Green Purples.
WHAT STAYS THE SAME
First launched in 2022, the academy was designed to help multilingual teens with interrupted formal education transition into American schools. The core pillars of this highly successful model will remain intact:
The Academic Program: The curriculum at Purples Academy will continue the same standards as all BGISD schools, while maintaining its focus on English language development, intervention, and foundational reading and math skills.
The Mission: Culturally responsive teaching and trauma-informed practices will continue to anchor the daily student experience.
Familiar Faces: In a testament to the program's strength, the core teaching staff is returning for the 2026-27 school year, providing stability and continuity for both students and families.
Returning Staff for 2026-27:
Teachers: Ms. Madeline Allen, Ms. Hannah Clark, Ms. June Franklin, Ms. Ainsley Minton, Ms. Elizabeth McClain, Ms. Katie Jo Serrano, Ms. Kerry Simmons, Ms. Kelley Wiggins, Mr. Zachary Brandt, and Mr. Jonathan Story
Counselor: Ms. Katherine Whitney
Student Support: Ms. Liz Heller and Ms. Patricia Allen
Front Desk: Ms. Anelise Roth
NEW FOR PURPLES ACADEMY
As the program evolves, several new features will be introduced to build community and foster the Bowling Green spirit:
New Identity: A new name and logo that integrate the program into the "Purples" tradition. The logo is based on the traditional H of the BGHS Logo and the idea of bridging cultures and learning gaps for our students.
New Leadership: The academy will welcome a new Lead Teacher, Wendi Byrne.
The House System: Purples Academy will implement a new house system based on the Ron Clark Academy model to boost student engagement, teamwork, and belonging.
Expanded Activities: Students will have an updated Music, Art, and Physical Education schedule, alongside the creation of new student clubs and activities.
Related Arts: Returning educators Mrs. Wiggins (Music) and Ms. Simmons (Art) will split their time teaching at both Purples Academy and Dishman McGinnis Elementary. Additionally, Ms. Heather Ross will join the team to teach Physical Education across both campuses.
"Our dedication to our multilingual and newcomer students has only grown since we first launched in 2022," said Superintendent Gary Fields. "Purples Academy represents the sustainable, long-term evolution of a program that will continue to positively impact students and our entire community. By keeping so many staff in place and introducing new supports like the Ron Clark house system, we are ensuring our students receive the best care and education on their path to graduate from Bowling Green High School."
Fields continued, “We also look forward to welcoming Ms. Wendi Byrne to BGISD as Lead Teacher for this program. She joins BGISD with more than 13 years experience serving students with diverse needs in fast-changing educational environments. She has been recognized as a leader who builds strong relationships with students, and families, and who supports and mentors peers.
Ms. Byrne has previously worked as a Special Education Teacher in Sumner County Schools and Gainesville City Schools. She also has experience serving on state assessment review committees and as an instructor with Pearson Connections Academy.”
Further details and student schedules will be shared with Purples Academy students and families ahead of the 2026-27 school year.
