The Educational Program

  • Highland Academy is a rigorous 6th-12th grade competency-based learning environment that promotes mastery across the curriculum. Students are required to demonstrate mastery on individual standards in all content areas before moving on to the next level. Our standards drive instruction, and teachers utilize a wide variety of resources and strategies to address the varied needs of students. Skills acquired in one subject often help students meet standards in others, reinforcing cross-curricular learning. Students are placed in Language Arts and Math classes based on their individual ability levels, helping to better address their specific needs. 
     
    Our program prioritizes social-emotional learning, community engagement, individual growth and student ownership. We expect students to take an active role in their educational experience. Our strong advisory system supports students’ academic, social, and emotional development. Throughout their time at Highland Academy, students regularly reflect on and present their learning experiences.
     
    Graduates leave prepared for their next steps, whether that means entering the workforce or pursuing higher education.
     
    HACS utilizes blended learning where education combines face-to-face classroom methods with digital learning tools. The input and feedback of peers is central to the learning process at HACS, and students learn strategies and tools for giving and receiving constructive feedback. Interactions in the classroom are deliberate, guided, and designed to improve processes and products.   Rather than using only a traditional time-based system, Highland Academy Charter School’s performance-based system requires students to progress through academic levels as they meet competency expectations. HACS recognizes that learners bring diverse talents and needs to the learning community, and are committed to providing flexibility within the program to honor those unique talents and needs.  Our commitment of time and personnel maximizes our ability to know our students well. We emphasize a low student-teacher ratio, small class sizes, and an advisory system that provides every student at HACS with an adult advocate and academic advisor.
     
     

    What makes Highland Academy unique?

    • Competency Learning — Student Centered and Individualized
    • Varied Assessment Strategies
    • Real World Application
    • Advisory Program
    • Integration of Technology 
    • Ability to Revise Assignments for Mastery
    • Student Leadership and Involvement