Academics
Curriculum
Literacy instruction is delivered through Wonders. This includes reading, writing, grammar, and spelling. Math instruction is delivered through enVision Math (Savvas). Social Studies and Science standards are aligned with the Colorado State Standards and are delivered through Wonders, Core Knowledge resources, and other supplemental resources with an emphasis on project based, hands-on learning.
Grading
Grading Policy
The primary purpose of grading is to communicate student achievement and progress to students, parents, school administrators, post-secondary schools, and the public.
Graded Assignments
All graded assignments must directly relate to the Colorado Academic Standards/Curriculum. Grades will be based on individual achievement of learning goals/objectives.
Assessments will be used for grading purposes. Assessments take place after the learning has occurred and may include, but are not limited to: unit tests, independent class work, quizzes, and projects. Late or missing assignments will be marked “incomplete” until the work is completed.
In addition to schedule school-wide progress reports, parents will be notified when a grade of D or F appears to be forthcoming, and/or when there is a marked or sudden change in a student’s performance or attitude.
In class assignments and assessments will be re-done at the teacher’s request only. The Academy policy for make-up work is two days for each day absent as time to make up work.
Homework
At The Academy K-5, there is no requirement for daily homework. However, we strongly encourage nightly reading for 15-20 minutes. We value work-life balance for our students, and therefore, encourage students to pursue extracurricular activities, rest, and play outside of school hours. Students may bring work home that was incomplete from the day, make-up work from absences, or additional material to enhance their skills and grade.
Support
Inclusion coupled with high expectations is at the heart of The Academy’s approach to supporting diverse learning needs. The Academy has a strong staff of experienced learning support specialists and support service providers who work hard to implement a high quality multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) with the core belief that all children can succeed. MTSS is defined as a prevention-based framework of team-driven, data-based problem solving for improving the outcomes of every student through family, school, and community partnering and a layered continuum of evidence-based practices applied at both the classroom and school levels.
MTSS is a framework that uses implementation science to create one integrated system from a wide range of student support options. At The Academy this includes support for students struggling with academics, behavioral or social-emotional challenges, advanced students, students with disabilities, students learning English as a second language, and more (IEP/Special Education, 504, Advanced Learning Plans, English Language Learners, READ plans). Our system is designed to support the needs of all students and recognize each individual as a valued and contributing member of our community.