Why OA?
Why We Created Odyssey Academy?
Putting the Pieces Together/Interdisciplinary Learning
We have a vision of students getting the big picture and not just the little pieces.
Appeal to all Learning Modalities (visual, auditory, kinesthetic)
1/3 of all students learn very well in a traditional environment.
1/3 do adequately in a traditional environment.
1/3 are lost in a traditional environment.
Our goal is to reach all learners through the use of project-based education by utilizing proven educational methods.
We utilize a constructivist approach.
We would like to keep students in the top three tiers of Bloom's taxonomy which includes evaluation, synthesis, and analysis.
Fulfills a need in St. Lawrence County
Alternative education is being cut from most budgets.
Teachers are being taxed with larger class sizes which makes planning for this type of interdisciplinary, multi-aged education experience nearly impossible.
Embraces Multi-aged Learning
Students can learn at their own pace.
Flexible grouping allows students to work toward their potential.
Why K-8?
To start kids on a constructivist path as early as possible.
To fill a need in Canton for 7-8 grade education.
To allow for a more home-like atmosphere.
Why Choose Odyssey Academy?
Odyssey Academy Instructors:
Encourage Foreign Language Acquisition at young ages
Spanish will be taught from kindergarten to eighth grade.
Spanish speaking guests will have discussions and conversations with students.
Spanish will be incorporated into the school day.
Utilize Real World Instruction
Speakers and project guides will be invited in for special topics.
St. Lawrence University Students
SUNY Potsdam Students
SUNY Canton Students
Retirees
Cornell Cooperative Extension Personnel
Parent Volunteers
Curriculum is based on New York State Standards, environmentally sound principles, and research-based teaching methods.
New York State Core Curriculum
National Wildlife Foundation - Ranger Rick K-8 Curriculum
Real world experiences and application
Embrace Critical Thinking
We embrace innovative and critical thinking - we have the flexibility to investigate students' ideas
Students can learn at their ideal pace
Students will be actively learning and creating
All work will be completed during the school day - only family projects will be used for homework