1) What is Project-Based Learning at Trillium Middle School?
Answer: Project- Based Learning is a style of education which steps away from high stakes tests and quizzes to showcase learning, and instead uses student directed projects (Models, Presentations, Writing, Art, etc) to convey mastery of standards. Project-Based Learning, focuses on students making their own choices in their education, with the help of parents/guardians and teachers to guide them. If you interested in learning more we encourage you to check out this webpage: https://www.pblworks.org/what-is-pbl
2) What curriculum does Trillium Middle School use?
Answer: The school uses the same curriculum, aligned to the state standards, as the traditional middle school. Including programs such as Ready Math and StudySync. However, this curriculum is delivered in a project-based learning format. The "what" is the same, the "how" is different. If interested the curriculum maps are found on the district website, under "curriculum".
3) Can students participate in sports and extra-curricular activities?
Answer: Yes students have the same access to sports and extra-curricular activities within the school district.
4) Do students attend specials (e.g. Art, Band, Phys. Ed, Agriculture)?
Answer: Yes students attends specials with the rest of their 7th and 8th grade peers.
5) Are Special Education services available at Trillium?
Answer: Yes, Special Education coordinates with Trillium to meet the students needs.
6) When can we apply to be part of Trillium?
Answer: Open enrollment is the month of February. Families can fill out application forms to be considered the first two quarters of the school year. Trillium does not except students after Quarter 3 has started.
7) I need to excuse my student from school, what is the process?
Answer: Please contact Darcy in the Middle School office for all attendance, absences, appointments, and excused days out of school.
8) Does my student need to reapply for an 8th grade spot?
Answer: No, once your student has been accepted into the program that guarantees their place for both 7th and 8th grade.
9) Trillium isn't the right learning environment for my students, what is the process to leave the charter school?
Answer: First step, parents and teachers talk about options, if an exit from the charter school is decided, the Lead-Teacher and the student work with the school counselor to get a schedule for the student. Students are strongly encouraged to exit at the end of the quarters. This is the easiest way to transition from one learning environment to another, in addition other staff members have the easiest time adding a new student at the end of the quarter.
**Have a question that you don't see above? Contact Lead-Teacher Emily Gostonczik at gosemi@viroquablackhawk.org to get your question(s) answered!