Instructional Approach

Featured programs:

Aspire’s Math Vision:
All Aspire scholars have the right and ability to become confident, independent mathematical thinkers and problem solvers. Our collective responsibility is to provide a math instruction program that will prepare students for college and career, and empower them with the knowledge and skills needed to use math to tackle problems that matter to them in their lives and communities.

Aspire’s Social Emotional Learning:
Aspire supports our students’ social and emotional development to be caring and productive citizens. We engage in culturally responsive and equitable practices in our communities of students, families, and teammates to cultivate the following lifelong skills in each Aspire scholar and educator: managing emotions and behaviors, feeling and expressing empathy and compassion for others, making responsible decisions, and setting and achieving positive goals

Authentic experiences:
In the early elementary grades at Aspire schools, students learn literacy skills through authentic reading and writing experiences, including shared reading, guided reading, independent reading, shared writing, interactive writing, writing workshops, and independent writing. In the older elementary grades at Aspire schools, students focus on “reading to learn,” through reciprocal teaching, close reading, literature circles, and the use of both non-fiction books and classical literature. Students also learn by applying the scientific method to hands-on experiments and interacting with others on community issues.

Career Pathway Exploration and Early College High School:
Students in grades 9-12 have the opportunity to explore future career pathway opportunities through a variety of experiences, including internships. Our high school graduation requirements include that every student takes and passes multiple community colleges and/or 4-year college courses to earn college credits, get college exposure and practice, explore potential majors and careers, and build confidence and context for post-secondary studies.

Expanded Learning (ExL):
Expanded Learning (ExL) is Aspire’s after-school program, available for grades TK-9. ExL programs support college readiness through academic and enrichment programming that meets the unique needs of our scholars, sparks interest in new skills/careers/passions, and engages families as partners. ExL educators and directors from the community are developed, trained, and empowered to implement research-based strategies, terminate inequitable practices, and follow pathways to leadership.