DerNecia Phillips is bringing a new vision to education with the launch of Identity Preparatory Academy. The school stands as the first state approved Black founded middle school in Nebraska, marking a major step in expanding educational access and representation.
Located in North Omaha, the school is focused on helping young girls grow into confident leaders. At its core, Identity Prep is not just about academics. It is about shaping identity, building self worth, and creating a space where girls feel seen and supported.
Identity Prep Focuses on Empowering Girls Through Culture and Confidence
From the beginning, Phillips designed the school with empowerment in mind. She believes that when girls are placed in an environment that reflects their identity, they perform better and feel more confident. As a result, Identity Prep combines strong academics with cultural awareness.
“We want high quality education and academic excellence at the forefront,” Phillips said. “Our girls need to see people that look like them and leadership that looks like them.” This approach ensures that students are not only learning but also developing a strong sense of self.
Community Driven Education Model Shapes Identity Prep Vision
One key difference at Identity Prep is how the school was created. Instead of a top down approach, Phillips involved families and students in the planning process. This initiative, known as “Dreams of Our Daughters,” helped shape the school’s direction.
“We invited the families and their daughters to come in,” Phillips explained. “They talked about what kind of education would be nourishing for them. And then we built it out.” Because of this, the school reflects real needs and real voices from the community it serves.
All Girls School Model Backed by Research and Results
Identity Prep’s all girls model is also supported by research. Studies show that girls in single gender schools often perform better academically and show higher confidence levels. This insight played a key role in shaping the school’s structure.
Research from institutions like the Higher Education Research Institute at University of California, Los Angeles highlights increased academic engagement among students from all girls schools. Similarly, findings reported by The Guardian show stronger exam performance in single gender environments.
Cultural Identity and Sankofa Symbol Guide Learning Approach
Beyond academics, Identity Prep places strong emphasis on cultural identity. The school uses the Sankofa as a guiding principle. The symbol, which means “go back and get,” encourages students to learn from the past while building their future.
This cultural foundation helps students feel connected to their heritage. At the same time, it supports a learning environment that values history, identity, and growth. By blending tradition with modern education, the school creates a balanced and meaningful experience.
Local Community and Educators Support Long Term Impact
Identity Prep is deeply rooted in the North Omaha community. Local educators and leaders have stepped forward to support the school’s mission. Their involvement ensures that students receive guidance from people who understand their environment and experiences.
Looking ahead, the school aims to build confident, creative, and academically strong young women. With its community support and clear vision, Identity Prep is positioned to make a lasting impact on education in Nebraska.
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