Success Academy scholars have science every day with a dedicated science teacher. Each year they study topics in Life, Physical, and Earth Science, as well as in Engineering and Computer Science. Classes center on an experiment or activity — on any given day, scholars may build a simple machine, conduct a scratch test to identify minerals, or dissect a squid. These activities serve as the foundation for rich discussion and analysis, in which teachers guide scholars to a deeper understanding of the relevant scientific principles.

Too often, the T and E (Technology and Engineering) are missing in STEM programs, but not at Success Academy. Starting in Kindergarten, scholars study engineering and computer science every year, in four-week science units dedicated to each subject. Through inquiry-based projects that range from designing and building an amusement park to programming a “Fuzzball” through a maze, scholars master increasing complex Engineering and Computer Science concepts that spark their interest in these fields and lay the foundation for further study.

Our approach to math gives scholars a powerful conceptual understanding of the “why” behind mathematics, along with computational fluency, so they can confidently and productively apply mathematical knowledge to solve unfamiliar problems. The elementary school sequence builds conceptual mastery of arithmetic, geometry, fractions, measurement, and data analysis, and develops calculation speed and accuracy through short, daily practice of “math facts.”

Starting in second grade, students show off their computational skills in math bees, with school champions progressing to the network-wide tournament. Beginning in third grade, some scholars participate in Math Olympiad, meeting once a week to tackle complex math problems and test their skills against top math students around the world.

Scholars take their STEM learning beyond the classroom in regular field studies. These include visits to local bridges to study bridge engineering, trips to the Museum of Math, the Hall of Science,and the Natural History Museum; investigations of soil composition and pollution in nearby parks, and spending the day as field ornithologists, observing and analyzing bird behavior.

Our reading program develops scholars into passionate, highly skilled readers who approach each text with the desire and ability to uncover its deepest meaning. Our immersive curriculum includes phonics, small-group guided reading, and read alouds, when the whole class reads and analyze texts selected for the quality of their writing and the resonance of their ideas. Scholars are exposed to great works of fiction, poetry, and non-fiction and participate in lively discussions that unpack meaning through examination of character, craft, and structure.

We set scholars up to be skilled writers who convey their ideas with clarity and purpose. We provide plentiful opportunities for practice and revision and focus our feedback on the quality of their ideas. Our scholars write every day, learning to craft a powerful and expressive sentence, and working on assignments that range from book reviews to op-eds to short stories. Scholars also master the technical aspects of writing, becoming adept spellers through nightly practice (and old-fashioned spelling bees!), and learning the rules of grammar through short, weekly lessons.

In two PBL units each year, scholars learn the thrill of becoming experts in a subject. They explore topics in depth over six weeks — through reading, writing, art, science, and field studies — and work collaboratively to build expertise and apply their knowledge in creative projects. At the close of each unit, families visit classrooms to view PBL museums and performances showcasing scholars’ newly gained expertise.

Children need background knowledge to understand and learn from what they read. For example, if a student does not know about the existence of European kings and queens, it is difficult to comprehend texts about the American Revolution. We build knowledge primarily through purposeful text selection in our reading program, but also through units in which scholars delve into topics like the Middle Ages, Pilgrims, and Inventions.

Kindergarteners participate in choice time or blocks for one hour each day. During choice time, scholars choose among stations for dramatic play, painting, legos, and other activities. In blocks, scholars work with their peers to create increasingly complex structures. This daily play period develops our kindergartners’ cognitive, social-emotional, and motor skills, and gives them plentiful opportunities to engage in collaborative problem-solving.

Our Chess program provides engaging, hands-on instruction that sharpens scholars’ analytical instincts and strategic thinking. After learning the basic moves and rules of the game, scholars develop the strategies needed to checkmate their opponent and the mindset to compete with confidence. Starting in third grade, some scholars join the competitive chess team and have the opportunity to compete in local, state, and national tournaments.

We introduce scholars to a variety of sports — such as basketball, soccer, and volleyball — so they can find one they truly enjoy. Sports classes focus on skill development, as well as teamwork and learning the rules of the game. Each class concludes with a fun and competitive mini-match. Starting in third grade, scholars can try out for competitive sports teams that meet before or after school and on weekends.

In Visual Arts, scholars explore and engage with their own ideas and the world around them. Working with materials that include clay, collage, photography, painting, and printmaking, scholars gain technical skills and the ability to express themselves visually. Scholars are also exposed to famous works of artists past and present, which provides them with points of connection and an understanding that they are part of a global artistic tradition.

In Performing Arts, scholars study music, dance, or theater and explore a variety of genres and styles. Scholars develop technical and creative facility as they tell the stories of their imaginations, their lives, and their communities, and they showcase their learning in bi-annual performances. Starting in third grade, scholars can try out for the network-wide Success Academy Youth Chorus.

Every Wednesday scholars drop everything to play board games, and in the process, grow as strategic thinkers and social learners. Playing board games strengthens scholars’ problem-solving abilities and develops their social and communication skills as they learn to work well with others by taking turns, making decisions, and winning or losing with grace.