The curriculum at Self Development Academy (SDA), one of the top performing schools in Arizona, is aligned to the standards set by the Arizona Department of Education, but its educational program is accelerated, and students learn a minimum of one grade level above the state standards.
Students who are even more academically advanced continue to speed through the curriculum for their grade. These students need additional stimulation. SDA’s approach to satisfy the educational needs of such children is to accelerate and enrich beyond the normal classroom.
Our pull-out enrichment program at SDA offers the opportunity for hands-on, active learning and problem solving, using critical thinking skills in a small group setting. Such activities also increase student interest in new subject areas and foster a love of learning. Students often work with partners to exchange thoughts and ideas.
They also are encouraged to generate ideas independently, discuss them, and then develop new concepts within a group environment. Collaboration boosts critical thinking skills, while also helping to develop and enhance reading, writing, speaking and thinking experiences.
One advantage of our program is it allows the teacher to personalize the instruction. Therefore, we understand the strengths and weaknesses of each child, and can tailor assignments to work on both. The students enjoy the small-class atmosphere more because they can move faster and have more in-depth discussions. This, in turn, alleviates boredom and promotes excitement in learning, which goes above and beyond the already advanced curriculum.
Another way SDA deepens student educational opportunities and experiences is through the use of technology, an essential skill in today’s world. Before the start of the 2014-2015 school year, SDA installed interactive computer boards within classrooms, and purchased 60 laptops and 15 tablets. Technology usage is part of the school’s curriculum beginning with kindergarten.
Students use technology in a variety of ways. First, students in kindergarten through grade 8 have a weekly technology class. During technology class, students learn keyboarding and various Microsoft programs, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Second, SDA offers foreign language classes through Middlebury College. The Spanish classes are blended learning experiences, providing students with the opportunity to learn Spanish and take an online course.
Third, students use computers for research purposes in other classes, such as science, literature and journalism.
Lastly, the interactive boards allow teachers to enhance their lessons and quickly retrieve information, such as maps and pictures.
SDA is an award-winning public charter school offering an advanced curriculum. Our teachers recognize each student’s individual ability, and we pride ourselves in doing what it takes to reach each student’s full potential, whether it is through intervention or enrichment above and beyond the regular classroom. Our goal at SDA is to promote lifelong learners and take our students to the next level of success.
SDA currently is enrolling for the school year 2015-2016. Please contact the front office at (480) 641-2640 to schedule a tour and/or to learn more about the school. SDA is located at 1709 N. Greenfield Road. A Kindergarten Information Night is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 22, at 6:15 p.m.