The AAL curriculum consists of research-based materials that are used to teach the Arizona State Standards. Our highly qualified teachers provide explicit instruction to challenge students. Regularly scheduled assessments are administered to K-8th grade students. AAL teachers provide monthly academic progress reports to parents/guardians to keep them informed of their student’s progress. AAL is a Performing School and has made Adequate Yearly Progress.
Curriculum Components:
Beyond Textbooks (BT) - Provides an accelerated curriculum map and pacing guide. Each 5, 10, or 15 day unit is followed up with a formative assessment.
Reading – Each day 90 minutes are devoted to reading instruction. The Success For All research-based program allows students to work at a challenge level in order to build these critical skills. Students benefit from cooperative learning activities that keep them engaged and enthusiastic about learning. Every nine weeks, students are assessed to determine their instructional reading level. Our goal is for each student to read at least one year beyond their grade level. AAL K-5 students also improve reading skills through the use of Spalding.
Math – Students develop math skills during a minimum of 90 minutes of teaching. Manipulatives, literature, and math journals are also used to solidify each student’s math skills.
Science – Throughout the school year, students will explore topics such as balance and motion, fabrics, and levers and pulleys. Students and teachers delve into “kits” that incorporate experiments and hands-on learning. Students are also taught to apply a variety of writing modes during science instruction using Delta FOSS kits.
Writing – All students will develop diverse writing skills. AAL students are expected to clearly express themselves as exceptional writers. A variety of writing experiences are provided at each grade level. AAL uses graphic organizers such as Four Square to assists with writing. The Writing Process and the 6 Traits of Writing are taught explicitly.
Social Studies – Social Studies is taught through a project-based approach. A project-based approach is the use of classroom projects, intended to bring about deep learning, where students use technology and inquiry to engage with issues and questions that are relevant to their lives.
Technology – Each AAL site has computers and other forms of technology are available. Students are expected to produce work that incorporates technology as well as use it as a learning tool. Internet safety guards are in place to protect students.
Assessments – All students, kindergarten through eight grade, are assessed on a regular basis. Students are given formative and summative assessments. In addition, students are given exams which cover the standards taught in each quarter. The data from the assessments is used to guide instruction and to ensure that learning is taking place.
Leadership
Arizona Academy of Leadership will maintain a learner-centered focus while adding a leadership and service component. Students attending AAL will benefit from this program by learning new and exciting leadership skills while simultaneously building their sense of self-worth and confidence.
For example, the leadership qualities of oral and written communication, problem analysis, judgement, organization, decisiveness, and character will be taught to each student. Our kindergarten through sixth grade students, under the direction of their classroom teacher, will plan and participate in community service projects twice each academic year to put leadership into practice. Likewise, students in grades four through six will not only participate in service projects but they will take on a greater role in the planning and implementation of the community service projects that will occur.
