Q: Will my student have a report card?
A: Just like all Optional programs in the Anchorage School District, Chinook Open Optional uses a student created portfolio. We use student led conferences, assessments and self reflections to celebrate growth and progress with family members.
Q: Why do students stay with the same teacher for two consecutive years?
A: Students spend two years with the same teacher so teachers can build strong relationships with both the student and their family. Teachers truly get to know their students which has positive benefits both academically and social emotionally.
Q: How do students from Open Optional Programs adjust?
A: Very well! Students from our Open Optional program adjust well to middle school, homework, and grades since they have learned to be self reflective, set goals, and work hard to achieve them. Since SEL is an integral part of Open Optional, students have the interpersonal skills needed to be successful when working with others.
"When I got to Mears, I began using grades and the study skills and organization techniques I learned in elementary school, and I did super well. I joined the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) and was at the top of most of my classes. By the end of 7th grade, I had gone from no grades to being a straight A student." -Jackie McClung - Chinook graduate, class of 2022
Q: How can parents and family members be involved?
A: There are many ways for families to be involved. Since volunteering is a fundamental feature of our program, each family is asked to volunteer four hours per quarter (one additional hour per quarter for more than one child). Families can attend the monthly meetings, field trips, and program activities such as our garden harvest, sledding party, COSA auction and more!
Q: Do you give daily homework to students?
A: Chinook Open Optional strives to approach education in a holistic way. After research and thoughtful discussion, we have decided not to assign any formal regular homework beyond reading. Each grade will share with families a developmentally appropriate amount of time we would like for your child to be reading at home each week with you. The value of spending time together and developing a love of reading is the kind of lifelong gift we would love to see passed to your child. We also understand the value of family time and want to make sure you are not competing with school work.