Universal Academy
Updated July 2026
Universal Academy is an A-rated PK-12 charter school district serving students in Irving, Coppell, and Bartonville. It is part of the International Community of Schools and focuses on providing a rigorous, structured educational environment.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Universal Academy aims to inspire and equip all students to pursue futures beyond what they can imagine. The school is committed to providing a structured, high-quality educational experience that fosters excellence, innovation, and student success. Leadership and staff work to create a safe, engaging, and academically rigorous environment while building meaningful partnerships with families and the community.
Programmes
The school offers a core curriculum for grades PK-12, with academic goals and subjects summarized by grade level. Advanced and specialized programming includes a Cambridge curriculum, Gifted and Talented services, and a dual credit program for eligible students. An extended-day program is available on each campus, providing before and after-school care from 6:15 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., featuring homework assistance, computer lab access, and enrichment activities.
Outcomes
Universal Academy is an A-rated charter school district. The school celebrates student achievements through graduation ceremonies and alumni spotlights, and it maintains a partnership with the International Community of Schools. Students have the opportunity to participate in a dual credit program, which includes support from a Success Coach to help meet enrollment requirements.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) to identify and address individual learning needs. Specialized services are available for students with IEPs or 504 plans, and the school maintains comprehensive resources for special education, including Child Find screenings and evaluations. Additional support is provided for students with dyslexia and emergent bilingual students, alongside a Gifted and Talented program.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
Universal Academy accepts applications for students from PK-12. Prospective families can begin the enrollment process by applying online through the school's website, where they can also request transcripts, health forms, and other necessary student records. Enrollment deadlines are provided to ensure timely registration for the academic year.
Calendar
The school operates on a structured academic calendar that includes 175 instructional days, with 450 instructional minutes per day. The calendar features designated holidays, breaks, professional development days, and clearly defined grading periods. Regular school hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with early release days concluding at 12:00 p.m.
Facilities
About the campus
Universal Academy operates campuses in Irving, Coppell, and Bartonville. The facilities include computer labs, gymnasiums, and outdoor playgrounds used for both academic and extended-day activities. The school provides bus transportation for eligible students residing two or more miles from their campus, supported by a live bus tracker accessible via the school's mobile app.
Co-curriculars
Students have access to a variety of academic and interest-based clubs, including robotics, drama, and a competitive chess club that holds weekly meetings and tournaments. The school also offers a band program featuring marching, concert, and jazz ensembles, as well as a National Honor Society chapter. Athletics include volleyball, basketball, football, track and field, and cheerleading. Additionally, a farm-to-table agriculture program for grades K-5 incorporates 4-H activities, field trips, and specialized science curriculum.



Mrs. Janice BlackmonFounder, CEO, and Director of Administrative ServicesFounder, CEO, and Director of Administrative Services at Universal Academy.
Dr. Dana JobeSuperintendent and Chief Academic OfficerSuperintendent and Chief Academic Officer at Universal Academy.
Mrs. Andrea ButcherChief Financial Officer (CFO) Human Resources DirectorChief Financial Officer (CFO) and Human Resources Director.
Ms. Perkina-Gross DickersonAssistant COO Director of TransportationAssistant COO and Director of Transportation.
Dr. Sheraton DuffeyUniversal Academy-Irving, PrincipalPrincipal of Universal Academy-Irving.
Mrs. Sandra ClarkUniversal Academy-Coppell/Bartonville, PrincipalPrincipal of Universal Academy-Coppell/Bartonville.
Cambridge Primary