By Sam Wechsler - Talk Radio News Service Harlem Village Academies (HVA), a charter school in New York City, recently set a New York state record for academic achievement with 100% of their eighth grade students passing mathematics. In addition 100% passed science, 92% passed reading, and 96% passed social studies. Deborah Kenny, founder of HVA, discussed their formula for success Monday morning with former NFL star and HVA board member Tiki Barber at a charter school convention in Washington, DC. Kenny highlighted autonomy and passion as characteristics of teachers at HVA. “In our schools, the more we trust our teachers, the more we give them a voice in decisions ... the more we give power to our teachers and trust them, the more they are on fire,” said Kenny. In addition to having passionate teachers, she also stated that the school spends the vast majority of its time dedicated to reading, helping the kids fall in love with it rather than focusing on the technical skills required. “A passionate teacher creates a passionate learning environment,” Kenny said.