
About Us
Empowering students to reach their potential
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Our Founding
Harbor Academy was founded in 2023 by Rita Dever, John Couhglin, and Claire Gries as a partnership between Catholic educators, LAPD, and the private sector. The founding class consisted of 20 fourth grade students. Harbor Academy will reach an enrollment of 100 students in grades 4-8 by 2027.
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Our Mission
Harbor Academy is a 5-year academic and leadership academy which equips children from San Pedro and Wilmington to excel at a college prep high school and beyond.
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Our Approach
Our students receive scholarships to either Mary Star Elementary or St. Peter St. Paul School and attend after-school tutoring and summer school at Mary Star High School. LAPD officers provide daily transportation and lead outdoor play time.
OUR TEAM

Rita Dever
Executive Director

Claire Gries
Board Chair

John Coughlin
LAPD Liaison and Founder of Operation Progress

Fr. Maurice Harrigan
Chaplain of
Harbor Academy

John Vidovich
Development Director