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We believe that a rigorous academic program combined with a supportive social-emotional curriculum leads to scholar success. APEX academic program reflects the practices that are associated with high-performing urban schools: more time on task; standards-based instruction; research-based curricula; regular assessments; nightly homework; and horizon-broadening enrichment opportunities.
Regular analysis of and reflection on scholar progress is central to APEX culture and to achieving our mission.
An Assessment Coordinator leads assessment implementation and data collection efforts to ensure data-drive instruction; All scholars will take four interim assessments in Reading, Writing and Math each year to gauge progress towards grade-level standards; All scholars take the Terra Nova (Complete Battery for Grades K-2, Common Core for Grades3-5). This both complies with our Charter Accountability Goals, and gives the school an end-of-year snapshot of scholar mastery of grade-level standards; English Language Learners (ELL) in grades K-5 are required to take the NYSESLAT exam. This is the only exam that determines whether or not a scholar can test out of the ELL program; All incoming Kindergarten scholars whose home language is not English are required to take the Lab-R to determine if they will receive ESL services;
A connection to nature is one of the many benefits of outdoor learning. In COVID times it is especially important to notice and interact with the nature around us. Wherever possible, outdoor spaces should include opportunities for students to move their bodies, use their senses, and play. People of all ages benefit from contact with nature.
Nature play is defined as playing with, on, or among natural materials in an unstructured, child-directed way. This article describes the benefits of nature play; provides ideas for creating different types of spaces and obtaining materials; outlines considerations for health, safety, and community engagement; and provides resources for further information.
A school library is a library within a school where students, staff, and often, parents of a public or private school have access to a variety of resources. The goal of the school library media center is to ensure that all members of the school community have equitable access "to books and reading, to information, and to information technology." A school library media center "uses all types of media, is automated, and utilizes the Internet [as well as books] for information gathering."School libraries are distinct from public libraries because they serve as "learner-oriented laboratories which support, extend, and individualize the school's curriculum. A school library serves as the center and coordinating agency for all material used in the school.
School labs are a great place for students which help them enhance their learning by understanding the theoretical concepts of science which are taught in classrooms. Well-designed laboratories not only make science experiments fun but also help students in achieving good academic results
The school bus is the safest vehicle on the road—your child is much safer taking a bus to and from school than traveling by car. We believe school buses should be as safe as possible. That’s why our safety standards for school buses are above and beyond those for regular buses..
