Summary: Both PEAK Academy and PODS are serving vital community needs that need to be supported and addressed by the Housing Authority.

The Facts: PEAK Academy is a charter school with a phenomenal track record in addressing the opportunity gap for Black students in Asheville. Positive Opportunities Develop Success (PODS) runs after-school and summer programs that primarily serve public housing students. They both operate out of the Arthur R. Edington Education & Career Center.

Our Assessment: We are concerned about reports of conflicts emerging between PEAK and PODS about space access and use. These institutions each offer unique value to the Black community, and we’d like to see the Housing Authority of the City of Asheville (HACA) negotiate a win-win solution that accommodates the needs of each group – which is what’s ultimately in the best interest of the children they both serve.

The Ask: We invited you to join us in reaching out to the HACA Board to encourage them to work with both PEAK and PODS to find solutions that address the needs of both.

Report Back

We have heard reports that the Housing Authority for the City of Asheville (HACA) is engaged in resolving the tensions between PEAK Academy and PODS. No further action is needed at this time.

GAP Supporters Taking Action: 9

Recipients and Responses:

• Board Chair Mychal Bacoate: No response
• Board Vice Chair Kimberly Collins: No response
• Board Commissioner Carol Goins: No response
• Board Commissioner David Robinson: No response
• Board Commissioner Kidada Wynn: No response
• Board Vice Chair Maggie Slocumb: No response
• Board Commissioner Scott Farkas: No response
• Board Commissioner Sean Aardema: No response