About Us
Our Origin Story
East Shore Leadership Academy opened its doors in 2014 with a simple but powerful vision: to create a school where every child can grow as both a learner and a leader. Authorized by Northern Michigan University, our charter began with grades K–5 and a mission to combine academic excellence with strong character development.
From the very beginning, ESLA embraced the Leader in Me framework, teaching students the habits of responsibility, confidence, and integrity. Parents, teachers, and staff worked together to build a safe, supportive environment where children could discover their strengths and learn how to use them to lead.
In 2015, we expanded to include middle school grades, and by 2018, we proudly established ourselves as a full K–8 Academy. Today, ESLA continues to serve families across the Port Huron area with small class sizes, dedicated educators, and a commitment to nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
What started as a dream to empower young learners has grown into a thriving school community—one where leadership is not just taught, but lived every day.
Our Mission
East Shore Leadership Academy, in pursuit of excellence, will develop future leaders through a strong academic foundation and the development of high moral character.
Our Vision
We will transform dependent students into interdependent leaders by fulfilling The Leader in Me process to become academically competent members of society.
Our Staff
Our educators are the cornerstone of East Shore Leadership Academy. Click here to meet the team!
East Shore Leadership Academy’s charter is authorized by Northern Michigan University.
Authorizer
Northern Michigan University (NMU) is the authorizer for East Shore Leadership Academy. As the authorizer, NMU provides oversight of the charter contract and ensures compliance with state and federal regulations. NMU appoints the Board of Directors and provides training sessions for the Board.
The Charter Office of Northern Michigan University supports the educational choices and opportunities for all children in the State of Michigan, regardless of their race, national heritage, culture and/or economic status. As such, NMU ensures that academic goals are being met.
Northern Michigan University is located on the beautiful shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s historic Upper Peninsula. NMU’s faculty is committed to providing excellence in education to both traditional and non-traditional students.