About

Ketchikan Charter School has served grades K-6 since 1997 and expanded its program to include a seventh grade in 2004. In the spring of 2005, Ketchikan Charter School was approved by the State and Local Authorities to add an eighth grade. We now have a very successful middle school program for grades 6 through 8th. Our school days begin at 7:45a.m. and end at 2:30p.m.

The distribution of laptop computers to all secondary students represents a unique opportunity reflecting the vision of the Ketchikan Charter School Academic Policy Committee and the Administration. This laptop program is a significant step to take full advantage of technology in the learning process.

Summary of Educational Philosophy

The Ketchikan Charter School founders recognized a need for a school, which focused on academic excellence, parental input and involvement, and accountability. These became the foundation of this school and are so noted in the achievement goals. KCS believes students must be challenged to perform at higher academic levels and demonstrate mastery of core academic subjects. Highly qualified teachers and scientifically research-based curricula are the keys to student success at KCS.

Curriculum and Instruction Methods

Ketchikan Charter School uses the Core Knowledge® Sequence, a curriculum based on the work of E.D. Hirsch, which emphasizes an intensive academic curriculum in which topics spiral so that students can revisit them, ensuring that students develop a basis for learning what educated people should know. It has been the experience of those using this approach that students retain information much longer and develop skills more easily when meaningful content is combined with the teaching of skills.

In addition to the Core Knowledge® Sequence, KCS emphasizes the teaching of basic skills with a traditional and conventional approach, in a self-contained educational environment. Our academically oriented program is organized so the entire class generally works as a single group on grade-level material with ability grouping occurring where necessary.

Language Arts

Kindergarten - 5th grade will use Core Knowledge English Language Arts and Write Tools.

6th - 8th grade will use Core Knowledge Sequence and Write Tools.

Mathematics

enVisionmath is used in grades K-8. enVision focus is on the standards, uses problem-based learning for student engagement, and is customizable for each student.

History/Geography

History and Geography topics are taken from the Core Knowledge Sequence and the Pearson Learning History Resources are used in grades K-6.

Science

Science topics are taken from the Core Knowledge Sequence and lessons are taught from Foss Science Kits, the Baltimore Curriculum Lesson Plans, and teacher created units.

Art

The bi-weekly art classes allow students to explore the many different genres of this area based on the Core Knowledge Sequence. Students participate in hands-on projects that help develop their creativity and self-expression. Frequently, these projects are related to Core Knowledge topics currently being studied with the classroom teacher. Students are exposed to many great artists and their works thorough art appreciation lessons.

Library

Students attend the library weekly. Students have an opportunity to read, check out books, and receive instruction about the different areas of library usage

Music

Students spend time learning music appreciation and study great composers and their works through the Core Knowledge Sequence. There are many opportunities for the students to sing as part of the class and as a part of the yearly school-wide musical programs.

P.E.

Through a variety of physical education activities, students learn about teamwork and the importance of sportsmanship.

Technology

Students learn technology skills through authentic tasks and integration with the curriculum.