Our School Approach

Each Explore Schools network school reflects the vision of its leadership and staff, but all schools share a common mission and philosophy.  Although we encourage flexibility and innovation at the individual school level, our School Hallmarks and Core Beliefs are at the heart of every one of our schools.

School Hallmarks

School design

• Each learning community will grow to serve students in grades K-8 with no more than 540 students.
• There are two teachers in every class.
• All students attend an extended school day and year and participate in enrichment classes.
• Our schools maintain a robust staffing model including Upper and Lower School Academic Directors, Deans, Counselors, and a Support Services Team.

School culture that ensures safety and love of learning

• Students are held to clear behavioral standards and time is dedicated to teaching and practicing expected behaviors.
• Strong relationships among students and teachers are intentionally built and fostered.

• Regular celebrations are held to recognize student and staff accomplishments.

Balanced Instructional approach

• Standard instructional frameworks for all subject areas outline required components of instruction.
• Basic skills instruction is balanced with instruction that fosters critical thinking and problem solving.
• Schools employ a variety of instructional strategies to engage students.

• Staff are provided models and templates for instructional delivery.

High expectations for children and adults

• Every member of the school community acts with the belief that all students will learn.
• Staff are selected and evaluated based on their expertise and efficacy.
• Staff are expected to ensure that all students are learning.