EXPECTATIONS
The program is designed to be done independently by the student and monitored through in-person student connection appointments. All textbooks and instructional materials needed, as well as on-line curriculum, to complete the program will be provided by Wisdom Ridge Academy. A suitable home internet connection is necessary for participation. Some advanced elective classes may require a student to use a webcam for proctored exams, such as certification tests. Access to libraries in our traditional schools and inter-district delivery will be possible between buildings if a student identifies books they want to check out through a library’s online catalogue.
It is expected that there will be adult family members available to support student learning as co-educators with Wisdom Ridge staff. The academy will support effective instructional approaches with parents.
PACE AND FLEXIBILITY
There will be a significant commitment of time and effort for students and families because a vast majority of the learning will occur at home or off-campus. Learning expectations for this school are the same as all public school students in Washington State, but place, pace and volume can vary. The time it takes for each student to learn concepts and skills will vary because of the personalized nature of this learning model. This flexibility allows students to take as much or as little time as needed to master each concept as they progress through the year.
The K-8 program is self-paced and flexible within the parameters specified by state law. The high school program is a combination of self-paced work and scheduled lessons and activities. Both programs use mastery-based learning. Students must pass one unit or lesson to move on to the next.
Accelerated learners may move through the curriculum faster than a traditional school setting. When a student demonstrates mastery of the content and/or passes a unit or lesson assessment, they may move on. High school students have the opportunity to take more advanced courses, including Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.
Students qualifying for special education services will have individualized education plans written appropriately for specialized instruction and modifications to be provided within the learning model they have selected.
Computer time varies by course, grade, and the student’s learning pathway.
PARTIAL ENROLLMENT
Partial enrollment is allowed as long as students are participating in another instructional program or school to address the remainder of their academic needs. For example, a student may take band at View Ridge Middle School daily while also pursuing learning in other subjects through Wisdom Ridge. Another student may attend Cascadia Tech for half of each day, and complete other learning through Wisdom Ridge. Home Based Instruction students may enroll part time in our courses as well.
ASSESSMENTS
Requirements for state assessments are the same for all public school students. Any student enrolled more than 80% of full-time is required to take statewide assessments. We encourage all students to participate in state assessments in order to inform families of current levels of learning and to demonstrate program effectiveness.
RECOMMENDED SCHEDULE
