Instead of just studying the regular curriculum at Skyline High School, 13 students have opted to take their education on a fast track of rigor and complexity by being part of Cambridge Academy.
The Cambridge Academy, under the coordination of Jill Benza, implements international standards, which will prepare the students to compete globally. The two-year math program, promoted by the Center for the Future of Arizona, includes Algebra, Algebra 1, Trigonometry, and Geometry. Chemistry, World Literature, World History, Biology and American History also are a part of their curriculum.
When Skyline decided to implement this program, teachers observed the process at Central High School in Phoenix and the Arizona State University Preparatory Academy to witness it in action and ask questions of instructors.
Trained by the University of Cambridge, in England, four teachers teach the curriculum. The university provides support to these educators throughout the year. Collegiality and companionship are key components, as these students spend four hours a day together, five days a week.
At the end of their instruction, the students take board exams, which are already aligned with the common core standards. The exams are internationally recognized and broader than the Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate exams.
Once the students pass the two-part program, in ninth and 10th grades, as well as pass the board exams, they then receive the Grand Canyon University diploma. The students can now graduate high school and go on to community college. But they do not have to choose that option. They can continue on in Advanced Placement classes at their high school.
Cambridge Academy is not for every student. Education should be tailored to individual goals. This is just another way in which Mesa Public Schools is striving to meet the diverse needs of all their students.
If you are interested in Cambridge Academy, please contact Jill Benza, at Skyline High School, at (480) 472-9513, or go to the Web site for Mesa Public Schools at www.mpsaz.org.