Overview

The good news is that the more we discover about how the brain learns, the more successful teaching and learning can be.

The bad news is that we cannot get this information to teachers fast enough.

from How the Brain Learns by David Sousa

Originally known as Canyon School for the Arts, the name was changed to better reflect the mission of the school - to create the next generation of math and science inventors and thinkers.

Founded by Dr. Maryann O'Brien, National Board Certified Science Teacher and Research Scientist, with the belief that if we don't incorporate new and important research about teaching and learning into our daily classroom instruction, we limit our students' opportunities to learn.

This is a customized school that draws on medical research and best practices from a range of national and international schools resulting in engaging and challenging educational programs, with oversight & accountability provided by former Alpine School District leaders, medical personnel, and visionaries through our Board of Directors.

Rooted in inquiry and problem based learning and infused with art, music, movement and a global awareness, the result is an interactive, interesting and relevant learning environment, with an emphasis on developing the next generation of science and math leaders.

One look at our "school within a home" environment and you will see why kids love to learn here. Over 2000 sq ft. of ceiling and wall space has been airbrushed to create a mindful, colorful, informative classroom learning experience. A 600 sq ft. dance studio is the main classroom which invites students to move while they learn; the learning resource center located in the garden atrium provides a serene and reflective space for reading and small group activities; and the musical math room and mobile computers are just more amenities students can expect.

The Curriculum is aligned with the International Baccalaureate Program and provides a framework of academic challenge and global connection. Instructional programs include core academic areas of language arts, math, science, history, geography, foreign cultures and languages. Embedded in the curriculum is physical education, technology, music, movement and the visual and performing arts.

An integral part is the "sphere of integration". Essential elements (concepts, knowledge, skills, attitudes, and actions) are integrated through the 6 subject areas and developed through inquiry and problem based learning interdisciplinary themes. This school design teaches students to recognize relationships between school subjects and the world outside school by combining knowledge, experience, and critical observation.

The "sphere of integration" makes it easy for students to learn material quickly and master basic sills since they are reinforced through out all core subjects and delivered through a child-friendly venue. Children come away more self-confident with a broader understanding and appreciation of the world around them. Children not only master academic and practical skills, but nurture their appreciation for the arts, resulting in good citizens and self-directed learners for a lifetime.

At the heart is the Customized Educational Plan - a blueprint for academic and personal success. Dr. O'Brien, parents, and the student together create an academic plan that is aligned with the required standards, but with an added level of customization that is dedicated to enhancing the multiple intelligences of the student. Now students have a plan that is created to ensure their success on every level.

As a Nation, we are seriously deficient in consistent, quality preschool teachers, let alone math and science teachers. We value children so much that we provide them the best educators as early as possible. Master Teacher, Dr. Maryann O'Brien, is the core instructor and dedicated to inquiry based learning. She team teaches with a network of art, music, dance, math and science professionals from the community to provide students real world experience and mentoring opportunities.

School design supports a family focused home and community. A variety of academic programs, flexible scheduling, and homework study sessions under teacher supervision, minimize the amount of time taken away from family and extracurricular activities.