Envision Academy is about results for its students. Faculty will measure student performance against California's academic standards frequently, using portfolios, projects, and class work, as well as standardized tests. Students will graduate when they have demonstrated mastery in each of the targeted results. In addition, graduates will meet or exceed UC/CSU requirements for admission.
Along with academic content and mastery of state standards, Envision Academy's courses of study will incorporate the development of artistic, technological, and leadership skills, such as critical thinking, written and oral communication, problem solving, and teamwork. Learning will be contextual, active, and authentic. Core activities will be integrated and interdisciplinary. Project-based work and field studies, along with traditional academic work, will be the norm.
Envision Academy will be small, with 125 students per grade and a maximum enrollment of less than 500 students. The student-teacher ratio will be less than 25-1. The school will provide a highly personalized environment, where each student is well known, individual student abilities are honored, and close communication and mentoring characterize the student-teacher relationship. Teachers will remain with students for a period of two years and each student will work closely with an advisor for the entire four years of high school.
Envision Academy will thoroughly integrate technology into the curriculum, using it as a tool for creativity, innovation, and communication rather than as a stand-alone skill. All students will master the fundamentals of technology and learn to use the daily tools of the workplace. Advanced students will work according to industry standards in areas of engineering design, digital arts, environmental science, and media and communication.
In a world that increasingly relies on design and creativity as a basis for success in nearly every profession, art is no longer a luxury or elective. All students will be expected to demonstrate proficiency in a field of art of their choice, such as music, painting and drawing, or computer design. Teachers will use creative and artistic methods in presenting all subjects.