CRETE'S ACADEMIC PROGRAM
At Crete, our academic program is designed to ensure growth and success for every student, no matter their starting level. We provide a rigorous, engaging curriculum that builds a strong foundation in core subjects and inspires a love of learning. Through activities like "College Days" and other academic-focused initiatives, we aim to cultivate curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong pursuit of knowledge in each student.
In designing our educational program, we took into consideration the skills and attributes that we believe are necessary to be an educated person in the 21st century. These skills and attributes include:
1.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
2.
Mastery of the Core Academic Subjects (Mathematics, English/ Language Arts, Science and Social Studies)
3.
Collaborative Learning and Diversity Appreciation
OUR FRAMEWORK
Our instructional framework is grounded in alignment to with the California Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and aims to prepare our students for success in secondary school and college. The CCSS and NGSS have embraced the notion that developing students’ abilities to solve problems, to invent, to create, to think critically and analytically, to communicate effectively (in writing and orally) are essential. Crete also believes these skills are essential if our students are to be successful in a world that demands higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills. Moreover, Crete’s curricular resources align to the CCSS and NGSS in all core subjects. We believe that our curricular resources, which are detailed below, will support students’ development of 21st-century learning skills.
Finally, Crete’s instructional strategies reflect our belief of what it means to be a 21st century learner and support mastery of the content standards and the development of higher-order and metacognitive thinking. These instructional strategies are further expanded upon in the Instructional Methods and Instructional Strategies Section.
1.
Differentiated Learning: Through a combination of direct teaching, small group instruction and one-on-one support, students are provided instruction in various ways
2.
Targeted Intervention and Response to Intervention (RTI): Through a tiered RTI system, students are closely monitored and provided support strategies to improve their learning.
3.
Development of Metacognitive Skills: Through the modeling and support of critical thinking skills, students will access curriculum that directly teaches critical thinking and reasoning skills and teachers will model and demonstrate throughout lessons higher-order thinking.
THE CRETE
TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM
Our Transitional Kindergarten program at Crete Academy is designed for young learners ages 3-4, providing them with a strong foundation for academic and social success. This program nurtures early development by introducing children to structured learning, social skills, and emotional growth in a supportive environment. With a focus on readiness for kindergarten, our TK program equips students with the essential skills to thrive as they embark on their educational journey.
ENRICHMENT PROGRAM
At Crete, our Enrichment Program enhances the core curriculum by offering diverse, hands-on activities that inspire creativity, curiosity, and personal growth. Through daily dedicated enrichment time, students engage in art, music, physical activities, and other pursuits that foster well-rounded development and a lifelong love of learning.
THE CRETE
HARMONY PROGRAM
The Harmony Program at Crete Academy provides a holistic approach to education, ensuring that students' physical, mental, and emotional needs are met alongside their academic growth. By nurturing the whole child, the program equips students with the essential skills for success in school and life. With a focus on well-being and resilience, the Harmony Program empowers students to thrive in a supportive environment, fostering academic achievement, character development, and lifelong learning.
GIFTED AND TALENTED
PROGRAM
Our Gifted and Talented Program provides advanced learners with enriched learning opportunities that challenge and inspire. By offering a curriculum tailored to their unique strengths, we cultivate intellectual curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. Through specialized instruction and engaging activities, we empower gifted students to reach their full potential and foster lifelong academic growth.