Classical Charter School

Classical School provides an excellent education through an academically rigorous curriculum. The foundational guide is E.D. Hirsch's Core Knowledge Sequence. Mastery is emphasized in all subject areas. Students are taught to strive for personal excellence in all areas of their lives. We promote knowledge-centered education, cultural literacy, and the values of a democratic society. Educational justice at Classical School means equal access to the basic skills and content needed for future learning. We are committed to a universal mastery for all our students. With the support of the school, staff, and parents, the student is expected to strive for academic growth and is held accountable for his or her schoolwork and behavior. Individual effort and ability determine student academic success. The Core Knowledge Sequence is knowledge-based and includes science; mathematics; language arts; classic literature; English; history and geography; music; and visual arts. A knowledge-based curriculum emphasizes the importance of learning a broad, contextual body of common knowledge. While the Core Knowledge Sequence is wide-ranging in overall scope, it also stipulates the learning of a specific, sequenced, shared, and solid body of knowledge at each grade level. The specificity of the curriculum ensures consistency within each grade level and prevents repetition and gaps in content from year to year. Each level develops a shared base of background knowledge from which to build future learning. Instruction focuses on unabridged classic literature, literary analysis, grammar, and composition after students achieve skill mastery in reading. Writing is emphasized in all grades and content areas. Starting in kindergarten, students receive accelerated instruction in reading and spelling using SRA's Direct Instruction program at the skill level appropriate for them. The Saxon math program is used for math instruction. Mastery in all skills is emphasized. The Shurley Method is used to teach strong grammar skills. Spanish language instruction is provided daily in grades kindergarten through eight. Instruction is delivered in Spanish and aims for mastery in aural, oral, and written proficiency. Students in grades K - 8 participate in physical education and music classes as well. Orchestra is available for students in grades 4 - 8 and band for students in grades 6 - 8. The students at Classical School are challenged and stimulated through this rich curriculum. Students who complete our program through the eighth grade will have achieved strong skills in reading, math, English grammar, speech, Spanish, and self-discipline. They will also have received a solid common knowledge of American and world history, geography, literature, physical and life sciences, and the fine arts.