Education Program

 

Rather than adhering to a single teaching philosophy or instructional model, the design will draw on best practices from the field and research to define a set of core instructional practices. Michigan Math and Science Academy Dequindre teachers will utilize a unique mix of the following research-based instructional strategies:

 

 

The use of these techniques provides an engaging, dynamic learning environment for students to explore the questions they have about the world and ways to positively contribute to the community around them. MMSA Dequindre will utilize a variety of instructional approaches to teach advanced concepts and higher-level thinking skills in mathematics and science, as well as other disciplines.

 

 

 

MMSA Dequindre uses a combination of diagnostic, authentic, state-mandated, standardized, and nationally recognized norm-referenced assessments to compare students’ progress over time with the school’s goals.  These assessments include:

 

 

The students who attend MMSA possess a wide range of skills. The extended day and school year, a rigorous program of study, extra programming, and parental involvement will be critical if the students are to achieve all academic goals.

 

Once enrolled at MMSA Dequindre, students will be required to take diagnostic tests focusing on mathematics and reading. The results of these tests will be analyzed by the administration and staff to understand each student’s needs and to create a personalized education plan.

 

 

The following academic support programs will be provided:

  

 

MMSA Dequindre uses a combination of the following tools to identify and assess accelerated students:

 

 

MMSA teachers differentiate their instruction by content, process, and product in order to meet the needs of accelerated students. MMSA teachers receive training in differentiated instruction at the Summer Institute, Concept Schools’ annual conference, and professional development days. The dean of academics monitors lesson plans and observes in the classroom to ensure that teachers differentiate instruction efficiency.

 

High school students requiring acceleration are enrolled in academically challenging Mathematics and English Language Arts classes. Students have the opportunity to take AP courses, dual-credit courses, and courses offered through partner schools. 

 

Accelerated students also have the opportunity to participate in special interest after-school programs. These programs have a project-based, challenging curriculum and provide students with the opportunity to participate in local, national, and international competitions. Examples of these programs/activities include Math Counts, Math League, robotics teams, science fairs, Olympiads, spoken word, and Future City. MMSA also organizes winter and summer programs for accelerated students in order to meet their needs and challenge them to perform to their full potential.

 

 

 

Parental/family involvement is essential to the school’s mission and student success. The following actions will contribute to an effective school-parent/family partnership:

 

 

 

 

As a college preparatory school, the MMSA Dequindre ensures that students gain the necessary skills not only for a successful college education but also for a successful career. Therefore, several components in the design integrate career education and exploration within the curriculum, such as life skills curriculum, job shadowing, summer internships, senior thesis, career and college fairs, college path courses, and other elective courses.

 

 

 

MMSA Dequindre has a dedicated technology person to assist faculty members at the school in enhancing learning through technology. Technology instruction at MMSA emphasizes content learning while strengthening the technology skills of students, teachers, and staff. Teachers use these methods and tools in order to enhance instruction in the content areas:

 

 

 

 

Co-curricular programs play a significant role in the culture of the school. Students are engaged in projects and activities before and after school. MMSA Dequindre students participate in five main categories of events – clubs, special interest groups, annual school-wide events, field trips, CYSP, and sports.

 

 

 

MMSA Dequindre focuses on establishing a culture that values and celebrates success, teaches shared values, sets high expectations, builds pride, and fosters a sense of community and belonging. The culture and climate of the school incorporate five essential attributes:

 

 

 

 

Special education programs and services at MMSA Dequindre are provided in accordance with federal and state laws and regulations as well as the individual student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). The MMSA faculty and administration work collaboratively with the district or other companies to provide high-quality services to students with disabilities.  A Special Education Coordinator is responsible for conducting IEP meetings to assess, review and revise IEPs.  Auxiliary and related services identified through the IEP (such as speech and language service or physical therapy, for example) are provided by the District or special companies.

 

Students with disabilities have an equal opportunity with students in the regular education program to participate in and, where appropriate, receive credit for non-academic, extracurricular, and ancillary programs, services, and activities.  Students with disabilities receive the same notices concerning school-sponsored programs, activities, and services as other students.

 

Providing a healthy culture that promotes safety, security, strong relationships, and a sense of belonging are some of the most critical components for providing a framework to support students with at-risk characteristics. Within this type of environment, students feel secure in approaching faculty and support staff for assistance.

 

Students at the MMSA with limited proficiency in English achieve proficiency in the English language through the use of the school’s services and teaching methods. MMSA hires at least one certified ESL teacher and adapts staffing according to the student population. MMSA ensures that ELL (English Language Learner) students will not be excluded from curricular and extracurricular activities based on an inability to speak and understand the language of instruction. Parents whose English proficiency is limited receive notices and information from the school in their native language so that MMSA is able to encourage the participation of all parents in the MMSA community.