The REACH Program Philosophy
The Creative Arts Magnet Program supports the emerging child in becoming a whole person through the integration of strong academics, creative arts, and community involvement in an environment that fosters acceptance of and respect for self and others.
This vision is accomplished through the dedication of skilled teachers, program leadership, and involved families; enriched activities, collaborative relationship with the school administration, and committed financial support to the REACH Parent Foundation. See: integrated curriculum, project-based learning, field-trips.
The Teachers as members of the school community:
- Provide a creative and cooperative environment
- Support students’ artistic, social and intellectual growth in classrooms of approximately 24 students
- Maintain a strong academic core incorporating music, drama, art, poetry, and Spanish (language)
- Follow state standards in all academic instruction
- Consider student needs and gifts when creating curriculum
- Create a culture that fosters dignity and integrity, responsibility for actions, and problem solving skills
- Model a joy of learning as a lifelong process
- Build cooperative/interactive relationships with families in the program
The Students as members of the school community:
- Engage in creative and cooperative learning
- Maintain academic skills at or above grade level
- Value responsible behavior and treat all with respect
- Participate in problem-solving
- Contribute effort and interest in all activities
- Complete homework and other obligations
- Embrace community service
- Respond to opportunities for leadership (demonstrating strong and caring citizenship)
The Parents as members of the school community:
- Provide a responsible home environment
- Support teachers’ high expectations of students
- Support responsible, creative and caring behavior
- Limit and monitor the use of electronic media influences: television, cell phones, movies, video games, etc.
- Value the need for homework— providing time and place
- Participate in parent education and problem-solving opportunities
- Build cooperative/interactive relationships with families and teaching staff
- Support the program with time, expertise and financial contributions as much as possible
