Academic Approach
Our students are highly intelligent and creative but struggle with attention issues, communication and learning differences that have caused poor past performance, self-doubt, and fear of failure. Our goal is to support these gifted students who learn differently so their unusually high potential can flourish. We designed our academic approach to help students find their voice and be themselves. We overcome the challenge of convincing students they are capable learners by starting with new project-based methods they have not tried before. Our creative and resourceful faculty think outside the box, just as our students do.
Learning Materials
Students are not compared, but expectations for progress are clearly identified and monitored. Daily homework is assigned, but adjusted for each student based on an understanding of concepts and need for reinforcement. Textbooks and relevant learning materials are chosen to match the style and personality of each student and change as needed to meet their progress. While we use syllabi that are similar to other learning environments, we do our best to infuse our curricula with opportunities to learn independently, connect topics to current events and real-world experiences, and include as many hands-on opportunities as we can.
Assessments
Due to our small size, and our philosophy, we do not rank students nor do we calculate GPAs. Assessments are ongoing and progress is measured through teacher observation, student self evaluation, daily class participation, and homework. Each student’s overall performance is assessed on periodic tests, midterms, and finals, though these are more bureaucratic than truly substantial/evaluative. Publicly-funded students are required to take periodic assessment tests as dictated by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
Course of Study
The school operates on a two-semester year. Our Drama Intersession runs for the entire month of January during which we produce a full-scale musical. All high school courses are college 3a Academics Overview preparatory in level, with some courses offered at the freshman college level. There are, however, no AP designations. Students are able to register at area colleges and universities to take additional accelerated courses in both academic and fine / performing art areas.
