Andrew Lovett, Jr.
Principal, Frederick Wilson Benteen Elementary School
Atlanta Public Schools
Dr. Andrew Lovett, Jr. is a 16 year educator in the Atlanta Public Schools system. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from Johnson C. Smith University, a Master of Music degree in Choral Conducting from Emory University, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Educational Leadership from Mercer University. Dr. Lovett entered education through Teach for America’s 2003 Atlanta Corps. He earned his National Board for Professional Teaching Certification in the area of Adolescent and Young Adulthood Mathematics. In 2017, Dr. Lovett was featured on NPR for his efforts in working to turn around Benteen Elementary School.
Project:
building brilliant biliterate readers
Building Brilliant Biliterate Readers is designed to address inadequacies in access to literature and reading materials for students, thus strengthening the school's Dual Language Immersion program. The goal of the project is to increase students' access to bilingual texts, raise student achievement, build student self-esteem, and create additional ways that families can engage in the learning environment.
Benteen Elementary School is one of the most diverse schools within Atlanta Public Schools. Approximately 35-37% of the student population identifies as Hispanic and speaks a language other than English in their homes. Through purchasing bilingual classroom libraries for all homeroom classes, the project will create opportunities for Hispanic families to read in their native language in their child's classroom, thus supporting families as they engage in their children's learning. It will also further an awareness of cultural and linguistic diversity within the school building and restore a sense of pride in bilingualism among students and families.