Legacy
When you look at Academy Charter School today, you might compare us to ‘The Little Engine that Could.’ Back in 1993, when we first opened our doors, no one knew exactly what to expect. A charter school was a completely new concept. The district, the school board, and even the teachers weren’t sure what the outcome would be. For the first three months, we didn’t even have a leader, and we had to form committees to tackle issues as they came up, like improving our modest strip mall space and parking lot playground. Parents played a crucial role in pulling everything together. It wasn’t easy, but through all the challenges, we developed a strong sense of community that continues today. From those early days, we have grown significantly. In September 2001, we moved to our current location and added seventh and eighth grades. Our parent volunteers have evolved into a vibrant organization, contributing thousands of hours both in the classroom and beyond. We now offer after-school sports programs and have built a strong alumni network, many of whom continue to support the school as staff, volunteer coaches, and even parents.
Guiding Principles
Academy Charter School wants every child to know they are cared for. We want to share their excitement when they succeed and help them regroup when they don’t. We want to nurture their independence and reassure them that it’s okay to ask for help. Most importantly, we want them to discover who they are and what they are capable of.
Academy Charter School wants every child to know they are cared for. We want to share their excitement when they succeed and help them regroup when they don’t. We want to nurture their independence and reassure them that it’s okay to ask for help. Most importantly, we want them to discover who they are and what they are capable of.
Athletics
As a charter school, we serve students from multiple areas in Douglas County, which makes it hard for students to interact and build a sense of community outside the classroom. To facilitate these relationships and help students learn how to balance extra-curriculars with academics in high school and beyond, we collaborate with other charter schools to offer several sports for sixth, seventh, and eighth graders.
Homeschool
Academy Charter School has offered in-school support for homeschooled students, providing the opportunity for social and academic interaction to families who would otherwise be disconnected. This program facilitates lessons in Science, Spanish and Electives for over two hundred homeschooled students in our community.
Characteristics
Service-oriented – committed to community
Agents of change – recognizing where and how to be a productive member of society
Self-aware – a clear sense of personal and academic interests
Balanced – the ability to manage time and interests in a productive way
