Principal Pia Headen

May 30, 2023 

58.871 months. 5.0 years. 1825 days I began my journey as Principal of Ethel Taylor Academy and I will never forget a parent and student asking me at the end of year one if I were coming back, while it struck me as strange I understood this building over those last few years had not sustained an administrator to last more than a year or two so I was extremely excited to return and serve just for that reason. Transitioning into year six I want to share that Ethel M. Taylor is a very special place and this year we have made many positive academic strides and provided great memories and opportunities for students to gain access and exposure to things they have never seen or experienced.  

Thank you parents for trusting my staff and I with your children and their education. We recognize this impact is immeasurable. Our Teachers, Paraprofessionals, Support Staff, Custodians, School Nurses, Cafeteria Workers, Resource Coordinators and Secretaries make a difference in shaping the behavior and attitude of our students – your babies.  The impact we have on students' lives extend beyond test scores: we teach them life skills and promote positive attitudes.  We believe that ~ Together is Better ~ Together We Create a Better Tomorrow. We hold dear our mission to provide experiences for children to reach their educational and personal potential while nurturing their self-esteem and self-confidence. We extend a very happy and safe summer to you all and cannot wait to see you well rested and rejuvenated in August. 

Please keep these summer dates in mind: 

June summer building Hours 7 am – 3 pm  (Closed July)

Tuesday August 1, Building Open 7am – 3pm 

Saturday August 5, 11 am-  2 pm CPS Community Celebration: 

Back-To-School Festival @   Washington Park, 

Tuesday, August 15 Open House and Back to School Bash 3pm -  6pm 

Thursday, August 17 – First Day of 2023-24 School Year 

New School Hours 7:40a - 2:10p  ~ Tardy 7:45 am ~ Doors open for breakfast @ 7:00a 

All the best, 

Pia P. Headen

Our Mission: It is the mission of Ethel M. Taylor Academy (EMTA) to utilize innovative methods to provide experiences for children to reach their educational and personal potential while nurturing their self-esteem and self-confidence.  

Our Vision:  EMTA will be a recognized school of excellence that prepares children for a changing world.  

Our Why:  The EMTA community will love, inspire, and empower one another to be independent thinkers, effective collaborators, and productive members of society.