The Apex Way
Apex Innovation Academy Educational Philosophy
We believe children need activity, exercise, and rough play (particularly boys.) Therefore, AIA makes unstructured play a priority in our daily routine.
We believe that each of us is unique and special and that everyone is gifted in some ways and challenged in others. Therefore, AIA avoids labels like “Special Ed” or “GATE.”
We believe in parental rights. Therefore, AIA honors parents when making decisions for their children. We don't keep secrets from parents like many public schools do.
We believe in the importance of emotional self-regulation. Therefore, AIA adults model emotional self-regulation by avoiding the use of anger and verbal aggression with children.
We believe that who we are is more important than what we know. Therefore, AIA prioritizes character education above subject matter.
We believe that screens are the enemy of experience and should be used sparingly and intentionally. Therefore, AIA asks parents to minimize access to computers, cell phones, tablets, and TVs during the school week.
We believe nature and the outdoors bring life and balance to students. Therefore, AIA students sometimes work outdoors, go on regular field trips, and play at the local park.
We believe that executive function (self-control, organization, planning, flexible thinking, problem-solving, critical thinking) is essential for success in school, on the job, and in relationships. Therefore, AIA trains students in executive function through activities and games.
We believe that the classroom is often the worst place to learn real-life skills. Therefore, AIA prepares students to find their calling through apprenticeships beginning in the 7th grade. All AIA students also participate in community service projects.
We believe that each student learns at a different pace and has natural abilities in different areas. Therefore, the AIA curriculum is personalized.
We believe that all citizens should have basic skill levels in reading, writing, and math. Therefore, AIA gives priority to these subjects in the elementary years.
We believe that creativity, collaboration, and communication are vital for leaders. Therefore, AIA provides team projects both in and out of the classroom that build these soft skills.
We believe that students benefit from the skillful and wise use of technology. Therefore, AIA students use Chromebooks, Google Apps, and online resources to self-teach. Students are instructed in the consequences of the overuse of technology.
We believe that children thrive in an environment where they have responsibility and contribute to the community. Therefore, AIA students work alongside adults in cleaning the school, preparing the activities, and leading the learning.
We believe that American schools have done a disservice to today’s youth. They have made those who fall short in “school skills” feel like failures. Therefore, AIA offers diverse educational pathways that include trades, technology, the arts, and entrepreneurship so that all students can experience success. We also allow students to work on assignments that are at an appropriate level of challenge.
We believe in only two genders, male and female and that there is no single way to express your gender. Therefore, AIA does not affirm alternate identities for students with gender dysphoria but instead helps them to overcome this struggle by accepting them for who they are. We love all students and value out-of-the-box personalities.
We believe in freedom. Therefore, AIA respects religious freedom, varying political views, and economic choices.
We believe curiosity is foundational to a quality education. Therefore, AIA promotes student wonder. Adults at AIA refrain from answering student questions, but instead allow students to discover answers to their questions through peer discussions and/or research. We employ the Socratic Method.
We believe games and music are powerful learning tools. Therefore, AIA is filled with gamification and educational songs.
We believe that students can only make good choices if they know what choices are available. Therefore, AIA exposes students to many different cultures, careers, talents, and hobbies.
We realize that today’s learner has millions of lessons at her/his fingertips via the Internet. Therefore, AIA provides children with guides who inspire, lead, and bring exposure to new and exciting worlds rather than simply passing on information.
We believe a child’s world should be full of laughter and play. Therefore, AIA integrates unstructured play and humor throughout the school day.
We believe that children have valuable lessons to teach adults. Therefore, AIA listens to kids and seeks their input.
We believe that children do not have the foresight to understand what skills and knowledge they will need in the future. Therefore, AIA guides students through lessons and experiences that will prepare them for multiple career opportunities, strong, enriching relationships, and to be a positive, powerful community leader.
We know that deep practice and ignition are vital for skill mastery. Therefore, AIA is rich in primal cues and teaches students how the brain works. We expect students to apply that knowledge to become world-class learners.
We believe the traditional model of age-based grouping has failed. Each new year brings a new teacher and new classmates. Teachers barely get to know their students and families before it’s time to move on to the next teacher. In the age-based system, opportunities for leadership and learning through teaching are limited. Therefore, AIA organizes students into multi-age classes where older, more advanced students help younger, less experienced ones. Students have several years with one guide (teacher) to be known on a deeper level. The result is a healthier community of learners.
We believe human beings thrive when they are autonomous and confident. Therefore, AIA treats students with respect and grants them the freedom to explore and experiment.
We believe that children want to learn, want to mature, and want to help others. Therefore, AIA gives minimal commands and instructions and leaves space for students to learn from their experiences.
We believe that grades are not an accurate reflection of learning and are very subjective. Therefore, AIA has its students self-assess, write and monitor their own goals, demonstrate their learning through portfolios and exhibitions, and pursue achievement badges instead of earning traditional grades.
We believe homework is a cause of stress in the home, and that the school has no right to intrude into the personal lives of the families it serves. Therefore, AIA does not assign homework but instead encourages quality family time, outdoor play, and community involvement. Students are urged to follow their passions and are encouraged to incorporate reading, writing, and research into their endeavors.
We believe that students thrive when adults in their lives work together in unison. Therefore, AIA parents and school guides will meet regularly to discuss ideas for how to best raise our children.