Mission Statement

Coda Mountain Academy lives and breathes the mission of community transformation. By recognizing that the pillars of family, education, wellness, leadership, and faith are inextricably interwoven, deep and sustainable change is possible. On a foundation of integrity and collaborative relationships, innovative and diverse programs are delivered that target societal challenges.

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Philosophy

It brings us indescribable joy to make a difference in our county riddled with poverty, food insecurity, and an opioid crisis. Coda Mountain Academy values the development of the whole person. The larger goals of Coda are to equip youth with the tools they need to live productive and fulfilling lives.  Through developing opportunities that promote healthy goal setting, positive identity, strong character, resiliency and life skills, Coda hopes to change the world, one child at a time. Mutual respect is encouraged between all regardless of faith, gender, ethnicity, or national origin.

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Our Story

The story of Coda began in 2007 when Esther Morey, with her son Charles, organized their first summer music camp in a borrowed cinder block building.  The talented volunteer staff and students had a joyful and unforgettable week.  The Coda Mountain Academy Summer Music Festival quickly turned into a high-caliber residential 2 week camp attracting esteemed faculty from all over the United States. Coda Fine Arts Kidz day camp began in 2010 for young children and became a feeder camp for the Summer Music Festival providing music, art and drama to K-11 students. 

 

In 2013, Coda began a highly successful after-school program.  This free program serves over 200 students across 3 schools. In 2016, Coda Explore STEM camps were born introducing students to science, engineering and robotics. ​

 

In 2018, thanks to Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation, Coda Excel, a unique tutoring program using arts integration to teach foundational concepts in math, language arts and social studies, was developed.

 

In 2020, Coda received the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant.  This allowed them to partner with Active Southern WV to provide additional programming.  Free after-school programs in Lego robotics, art, music, bowling, run club, hiking and disc golf are provided 4 days a week for 25 weeks a year and are open to all 3rd-8th grade students.  

 

In 2023, Coda received the esteemed Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation Changemaker Award.   Three minute film here.​

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The impact of these programs is tangible.  Data indicates significant overall improvement in school attendance as well as a decrease in behavioral referrals with students who are in the Coda Inspire program.  Children who have suffered trauma, are failing school, regularly suspended for behavior problems and/or struggle with lack of confidence often exhibit changes in attitude and behavior.  Giving youth a place to belong, engagement in meaningful activities, and unconditional love is changing lives. Join us as we run into the storm rather than hide from it.

 

Transformation in our community and in our state is possible.

Together we can revitalize the place we call home.