Welcome to Chugach Optional!
Chugach Optional is an alternative elementary school where children are immersed in a supportive,
"hands on" environment, that nurtures and celebrates varying learning styles.
Our unique school embodies an enthusiastic, dynamic learning environment that capitalizes on the
innate curiosity of children. Our staff continues to generate and sustain a strong sense of community
while planning and preparing theme-based experiential curricula. Teachers encourage their students
to delve into presented topics and become active participants in their own learning. Class work is
done cooperatively throughout.
We strive to develop a warm nurturing family atmosphere that promotes openness, trust, acceptance,
responsibility, self-evaluation and self-discipline. Children are taught to respect and celebrate
differences. They are encouraged to become independent, self-reliant learners and self-confident
risk takers.
Heavy parent involvement has been an integral part of our accomplishments. Parents commit to
volunteer a minimum of 36 hours per year to the school. One might find parents in the following
places: giving input in staff meetings, working in the computer lab helping students with their web
pages, reading or working with small groups of students, preparing work for the teachers, developing
a landscaping program, leading after school groups in gardening, drama, or chess. In short, they are vital!
Chugach provides a unique educational environment. Please tour the other areas of our web site to
"meet" the many outstanding Chugach individuals that have contributed to our success story.
