Who are we?
In early 2009, a group of local families came together with the goal to provide an alternative public education option in Truckee. We are a diverse group of parents with a wide range of skills to contribute to this project. Our dedicated group includes teachers, contractors, small business owners, non-profit directors, lawyers and marketing professionals. We are organized, highly motivated and committed to bringing a progressive and successful educational experience to the Tahoe Truckee community.

What we propose to do
Our goal is to partner with the Tahoe Truckee Unified School District to become a site-based charter under the district. Our model begins with a K-5 63 student school, with the potential to grow a grade level each year. Our target opening is for the 2010-2011 school year.

We will offer a hands-on Expeditionary Learning curriculum that adheres to district and state standards. Small multi-grade classes and strong mentoring programs will facilitate diverse learning styles and develop a sense of community. Our program will be heavily enriched with physical activity, visual and performing arts, music, and meaningful field trips.

The Expeditionary Learning curriculum is designed by Outward Bound©, a non-profit organization that uses outdoor adventures as learning experiences.  The goal of Expeditionary Learning is to foster academic achievement and character growth while instilling a love of learning and a sense of community.  This is achieved through learning expeditions, in-depth studies of a single topic or theme that are interdisciplinary and align with state and district standards.  With the belief that children learn best through learning adventures and hands-on experiences, students are guided by instructors, as opposed to being “taught to”; promoting a deeper understanding of a given subject while at the same time encouraging self discovery and building character. We feel Expeditionary Learning is an ideal fit with the active, outdoor lifestyle and values of many Truckee families.

Benefits to TTUSD

“Charter schools are public schools serving our children with our money. Instead of standing apart, charters should be partnering with districts, sharing lessons, and sharing credit.” – Arne Duncan, Oct. 2009

 

  • The Truckee Charter School is aligned with TTUSD’s commitment to educational programs with proven positive outcomes and supports all of the TTUSD’s goals:
  • Goal #1: Diverse and Rigorous Programming Philosophy
  • Goal #2: Outstanding Student Achievement
  • Goal #3: Quality Staff
  • Goal #4: Effective Leadership and Culture
  • Goal #5: Fiscal Accountability

 

  • Brings a cutting-edge, proven model for comprehensive school reform to the district. Expeditionary Learning’s research-based design, combined with its solid teacher-development component, has led to higher student achievement, increased teacher satisfaction, and positive school culture, particularly in Title 1 schools. The Expeditionary Learning method could be integrated into existing TTUSD school structures and help to close the achievement gap.

 

  • TTUSD can proactively be responsive to community needs and strengthen community relationships. This is an opportunity for TTUSD to build on its collaborative history of partnering with community groups.

 

  • Offer families an educational choice within the district. The Truckee Charter School can be an incentive for some families to invest in our local school district instead of sending their children elsewhere.

 

  • This is an opportunity for TTUSD to position itself for charter funding. As a new charter school in California we are eligible for planning and implementation funding of $500,000. As the charter movement grows in support and popularity we anticipate additional state and federal funding.