In the heart of Highbridge, Bronx, Brilla Pax has opened its doors with renewed energy and purpose, led by Principal Abigail Akano. With passion and humility, Ms. Akano embraces this new role, saying, “I never planned for this role. I still think of myself as a teacher. I love shaping and molding students and watching them grow. Becoming a school leader was just the next step to doing that on a larger scale.”
Leading a new school in a community she knows well is both a challenge and an honor. “When I think of Highbridge, I think of strength. It’s a community filled with resilience and pride,” she said. “Our families push forward with determination and care deeply about their children’s futures. It’s an honor to be here.”
Ms. Akano is focused on building a school that honors the community’s history while creating something fresh. “We’re not starting from scratch,” she emphasized. “We’re building on something meaningful, and we’re doing it together.”
Back-to-School Night was a defining moment, as families arrived at a building filled with warmth and excitement. “Seeing the wonder on students’ and parents’ faces… reminded us why we do this work,” Akano reflected. “That moment told us we’re ready.”
She credits her team as the soul of the school: “Plans are important, but they’re just paper without the people who bring them to life. I’m so proud of the staff at Pax—their commitment, flexibility, and heart. It’s incredible.”
Watching students walk in on the first day was another highlight. “You could see the nerves, but also the excitement. That moment made all the planning and all the effort real.”
Ms. Akano has been inspired by the teachers shaping the school’s culture. “I’ve been in awe of their willingness to rise to the challenge. Our students are fortunate to have such thoughtful, dedicated adults caring for them every single day.”
Looking ahead, her vision is clear: “I want students to walk into school each day knowing that joy and rigor await them, that they are seen, heard, challenged, and supported. This school belongs to all of us. We want the community to look at Brilla Pax and say, “That’s our school.”
For Ms. Akano, leadership is about service and shared purpose. “I can’t express enough how honored and proud I am to be the principal of this group. What I’m most proud of truly is them.”
Brilla Pax is a reflection of a community’s strength and a leader’s belief in what’s possible. Under Ms. Abigail Akano’s guidance, this new chapter is off to a powerful start.
Brilla Public Charter Schools 