Mr. Barry White Jr

Welcome to Irwin Academic Center!

I'm Barry White Jr., and I am honored to be your Principal. I was born and raised in Queens, New York, and I've spent over a decade in education within the Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools district, working as a Teacher, Coach, Dean of Instruction, and Assistant Principal. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Claflin University in Orangeburg, SC, and a Master's in Educational Leadership from Queen's University in Charlotte, NC.

At Irwin Academic Center, our vision is to be a beacon of educational excellence, inspiring every student to reach their highest potential. We aim to create an environment that nurtures self-motivated learners, innovative thinkers, and compassionate leaders who respect and celebrate diverse perspectives. Our commitment is to provide a challenging and supportive program for gifted and talented students, fostering their academic and personal growth.

You might recognize me as "The Handshake Teacher," a practice I initiated to build trust and individual connections with my students. This simple gesture has reinforced my belief in the power of relationships in education. "Relationships are key" is more than a motto; it's a philosophy that drives my work. When students feel valued and understood, they are empowered to excel.

I am thrilled to embark on this journey with all of you, working together to create a nurturing and inspiring environment at Irwin Academic Center. Together, we can achieve great things and make this school year exceptional.