Independence Preparatory Academy
Independence Preparatory Academy
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    • Home
    • About iPrep
      • The iPrep Way
      • Meet Our Founder
      • Board of Directors
    • Enrollment
    • Join Our Team
    • Support Us
    • Contact Us
  • Home
  • About iPrep
    • The iPrep Way
    • Meet Our Founder
    • Board of Directors
  • Enrollment
  • Join Our Team
  • Support Us
  • Contact Us

Meet Our Founder

Dr. Calandra Sales

Dr. Sales’ commitment to founding iPrep is deeply rooted in cherished memories of her grandfather, a black man born in rural Alabama in the 1930s, who demonstrated tenacity and resilience to become a skilled carpenter despite lacking postsecondary options after high school. His dedication ensured that all five of his children pursued college degrees. He instilled in her a profound belief in the transformative power of education, inspired by George Washington Carver’s words: “Education is the key that unlocks the golden door to freedom.” His lessons ignited a passion for education’s ability to break barriers and provide opportunities beyond marginalization, a true sense of freedom and independence. Dr. Sales firmly believes every child deserves access to the highest-quality education that prepares them for college and empowers them to pursue their career aspirations. Such an education grants them the freedom to shape their destinies and pursue their dreams. 


With over two decades of experience in education, during which she has consistently delivered positive outcomes for students, and her commitment to co-creating iPrep with the community, Dr. Sales is uniquely positioned to design a school that places student success, innovation, and community involvement at its core. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology and Mathematics Education from Alabama A&M University and a master’s and doctorate in Educational Leadership from Clark Atlanta University. In 2023, she completed school founder fellowships with BES and New Schools for Alabama. Previously, she was the director of leader development at IDEA Public Schools in Tampa, FL, where she coached and developed first-year principals and aspiring leaders. With a diverse background encompassing roles such as school leader, curriculum specialist, instructional coach, content and assessment director, and classroom teacher, Dr. Sales is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of founding a high-quality school option. 

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Independence Preparatory Academy

info@learnatiprep.com

205-898-7505

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We look forward to welcoming founding scholars to Independence Preparatory Academy for the 2025-2026 school year. Click below to start the enrollment process!

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