We use a variety of resources to best fit the academic needs of our learners.  Many hours of research and analysis go into our curriculum decisions and resources may be supplemented or changed due to individual, community or subject based needs. 

Math - For most of our learners we use the Apologia math program. We love their inclusion of manipulatives and games, and that they include lessons that explain both conceptual and procedural understanding of topics. 

Reading - For our budding readers we use the UFLI program along with a daily read-aloud to build vocabulary and reading comprehension skills. UFLI is "an explicit and systematic program for teaching children to read and spell words" (UFLI). For our more fluent readers we strengthen our reading skills through the use of novel studies. 

We strive to incorporate projects and field trips into our units of study to provide hands-on and real world application of our studies. Our goal is to offer the opportunity for a field-trip at least once a month. 

Please contact us if you have any questions about the curriculum programs and/or supplements we select. We would be happy to arrange a time to show you the resources we use. 

We strive to build a community of creative and compassionate learners who can think critically, work as a team, and believe in their ability to overcome obstacles. Learners of all ages are constantly practicing their communication skills, from building their verbal/written language to share their thoughts to crafting essays and research reports.  Just two examples of collaboration observed at Courage and Grace is watching learners support each other to understand  new concepts or with designing and playing a new game together. One of our learner's favorite ways to be creative is with art, but we also love their ability to make unique connections during our discussions and the stories they tell/write. Our goal is to provide our learners with opportunities that strengthen their critical thinking skills like asking questions, problem-solving, analyzing a text through discussion, and self-reflection. 

We love having the freedom to change our days to suit our learners, and we embrace this option often. However, many of our learners thrive with structure and routine, so in general our days follow the format below. 

Community Time - We review the day ahead, address any community needs, respond to a fun question, have some time to share, and enjoy a read-aloud. 

English Language Arts (ELA) - Within our skill-level groups we develop our reading, writing, & spelling skills. Examples: mastering the sound and handwriting of letters, learning a new reading/spelling pattern or discussing the next chapter in our novel. 

Break - Time to give our bodies and minds a break, and usually eat a snack too. 

Math - Within our skill-level group, or independently with coaching, work through our math lessons.

Lunch/Recess - It's time to eat and play! We believe eating at the table together offers time to practice social manners and communication skills and that play IS learning so we take a full hour for this break. 

Writing/Spelling - These topics are often addressed in our ELA "block" but we have dedicated additional time to focus on this important skill. 

History & Science - We may be reading, watching, investigating, drawing, constructing, observing, or  enjoying various other tasks as we study these topics. 

On some days you may find us at the park, or enthralled with an art project, or completing a STEM challenge, or attempting a new recipe, or out in the world on a field trip.