How we help every student grow
From Illustrative Mathematics and Thinking Maps to Power Hour and after-school classes, here’s how learning happens at Scholar Academy.
How we teach
The approaches and tools our teachers use every day.
Illustrative Mathematics (IM) is a problem-based math curriculum for grades K–8. Instead of only watching examples, students work through rich problems, talk about their thinking and explain their reasoning. Lessons build real understanding of math concepts, fluency with procedures and the ability to apply math to real-world situations.
Thinking Maps are eight visual patterns that make abstract thinking concrete. Because the patterns are familiar, they lower anxiety and give students a dependable way to work through complex ideas.
“Skillful thinking must be cultivated.” — Art Costa
Students work in small groups on a shared task or project, building critical thinking without relying on the teacher for every answer. To keep every student challenged, we use multi-age grouping in literacy and math so each group works within a narrower ability range. This supplements whole-group instruction and may also be used on DI teams.
Students can work online with math instructor Sal Khan. Khan Academy is a not-for-profit organization that offers free educational resources to anyone, anywhere.
Enrichment and after school
Extra ways for students to explore their interests, often with help from parents and community volunteers.
An expeditionary program where students attend six 45-minute classes on a single topic, taught by staff, community specialists or parents. Each term students choose from a menu of small-group classes, picking their courses during technology class.
A volunteer-led art education program that uses great artists of the past to teach students, building both their skills and their confidence.
Offerings depend on available teachers and parents and may include wrestling, soccer, dance, choir and violin. Fees may apply, up to $30 for a six-week course, depending on the instructor and class.
Funding and compliance
Plans and training information we share with our community.
ESSER III funding
Scholar Academy will use its state-awarded ESSER III funds in two ways:
- 20% to address student learning and accelerate achievement, recovering ground lost in learning.
- 80% to upgrade wireless technology, devices, equipment and services that support student health and safety.
We welcome feedback on the plan. Please contact Jeff Hall.