In 1993, when Ruth Jones was recruited as principal, Henry School had been closed due to failure in every area. The data revealed that in over a decade, 75% of the children from Henry had not gradated from high school and not one child from Henry had gone on to college.

Henry School had been given up as a lost cause. It was considered the worst school in the city. Yelling, screaming, threatening and suspension had been the primary discipline system in place. The exasperated staff did what it could to hold the fort. Parent involvement was minimal to non-existent. Most students' hearts were hard and angry, and they solved every problem with fighting. Profanity could blatantly be heard on the playground as well as in the hallways. Students displayed a lack of respect for themselves, others and especially authority.

To the rescue came an incredibly committed staff, a team of untiring volunteers, and the financial backing of several convinced donors who believed in the vision that Principal Ruth Jones communicated for the children at Henry. Today, Henry Paideia Academy has one of the highest parent participation rates in the district, and boasts 100% parent conference attendance. Children from Henry are not only graduating from high school but receiving honors. Parents, staff, volunteers, and students are proud to note that several former Henry students are attending advanced training schools and going on to college.

Thanks to faith, skills, love and strong leadership, Henry Paideia Academy has been recognized as a model school. Where once the school was to be torn down and forgotten, instead a brand new state-of the art building will open in 2006 to house the students of Henry Paideia Academy.