Family Ambassadors

Hello, my name is Sharon Ackerley. I have been a parent at Renaissance Academy Charter School since 2015. I live in Phoenixville with my husband, two daughters, and our dog, Rosie. Both of my daughters attend RA—one is a freshman this year, and the other is in 5th grade. They have participated in a variety of afterschool activities, including the Nutcracker, choir, the RA musical, band, robotics, and several sports. I think it's great that students can try so many different things at RA.

When we were looking for a school for my oldest daughter in 2014, I toured several schools in the area. As an educator myself, I knew how important full-day kindergarten and a solid curriculum were for her. The transition to kindergarten was a bit rough, but we found a supportive team at RA that helped us through it. It has been wonderful to see my daughters thriving and building strong friendships.

I’ve been an RA parent since my oldest daughter started Kindergarten in 2013. We were originally waitlisted and received our admittance a week before Thanksgiving. Pulling my daughter from her public school kindergarten after six weeks wasn’t easy, but we knew that RA was where we wanted her (and her sisters) to be long-term. Missing Kindergarten orientation was scary (for me!), but the staff was so helpful and answered all of my questions. We were part of the RA family by the winter holiday!

Now, I have a 10th grader and a 7th grader at RA. My other 7th grader chose to move to public school this year. I was heartbroken, but I had to respect that she was exercising school choice. Every year hasn’t been easy (hello, Covid!), but I’ve always relied on the fact that the RA staff has the students’ best interests at heart. I’ve seen it time and time again.

In my daily life, I’m the Director of Employee Experience for a local PR Agency. My husband and three daughters take the rest of my time, and I must spend a few minutes a day watching NCIS reruns and scrolling Instagram to relax. I’ve also been known to get on stage for charity or spend a weekend in an out-of-the-way hotel, eating junk and watching chick flicks with my bestie.

I look forward to helping the RA community with questions, concerns, and general knowledge. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with anything, large or small!

When I'm not immersed in the world of finance, my heart belongs to my two incredible kids who attend Renaissance Academy. My daughter, who has been at RA since 2023, is a curious dreamer, reminding me to see the world through fresh eyes. Meanwhile, my son, who has been at RA since 2021, teaches me resilience and the joy of discovery. Family time is sacred. We embark on weekend adventures, from picnics in the park to stargazing on warm summer nights. These moments remind me that life's beauty lies in shared laughter and simple pleasures. As parents, we find solace in knowing that our children are not only gaining knowledge at RA but also imbibing the values of kindness and unity. I am excited to help new and incoming families find their own path at RA!

As a native New Yorker, I've proudly called Phoenixville home for 25 years. With three sons aged 22, 15, and 12, each began their academic journey at Renaissance Academy (RA) and thrived as scholar-athletes. Since 2007, I've guided them through RA's Teaching Teams, fostering their unique talents and interests.

While my primary role is being a mom, I've also served as an attorney, corporate compliance team manager, and currently, as deputy director of a non-profit in Philadelphia. Engaged in community-building efforts, I'm an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc, and serve on the board of 100 Women of Phoenixville.

I firmly believe in advocating for student success, and as an RA Family Ambassador, I'm thrilled to support new and current families, drawing from my own experiences and the vibrant RA community.