The world of today – and most certainly the world of tomorrow – are different than anything yet experienced by humankind. Technology has brought limitless information access, not to mention a new field of study in and of itself. What’s more, technology has brought to the fore the importance of an advanced practical and theoretical understanding of math and science. Even so, the necessity of a complete grasp of language and an awareness of the history, literature, and arts that have brought us to this place and time are no less important.
As we face the daunting task of preparing our students for a life of leadership in the 21st Century, the faculty and staff of Hale Academy are constantly searching for fresh, stimulating, effective educational approaches. In preschool and lower school, traditional topics are taught utilizing technological innovation. “Core Knowledge” subjects (reading, writing, math, science, and social studies) lay a foundation for lifetime of learning. Math and science are “hands-on,” emphasizing experiential learning in an effort to show the children the very real role that math and science play in their lives. By third grade, technology becomes a separate course of study: at Hale we understand that technology is the foundation of communication in the 21st century. Clubs, athletics, and organizations such as “Happy Planet,” Archery, Lego-Robotics, and Brownies provide even more fun support to the academic curriculum.
Beginning in middle school, Hale students put their technological abilities to daily academic use even as they develop and refine their skills. Science and math continue to emphasize practical and “real life” applications, while classical language, literature, history/social studies, and art complete the core course of study. In upper school, students work to earn the basic courses of study required by the state of Florida for graduation, but also achieve the higher requirements of Hale Academy (and a more competitive transcript to support the college application process, including four years each of math and science). In addition, we have added a project-driven “academy-style curriculum” resulting in an integrated, career-based approach to our college preparatory program. Career clusters to be emphasized in 2011-21 include: entrepreneurship, hospitality, and small-business management; corporate and international business; health professions and technology; agricultural and equine management and technology; law, government, and politics; environmental and natural sciences; and educational leadership and implementation. Technology is embedding in each specialty area. Further, aviation science is incorporated through our LEAP team, and applied art and design through our studio art course. The career academy is further supported by extra-curricular clubs and organizations that foster 21st century skills, such as Lego-Robotics, Documentary Film Club, Nursing Home Pals, Hale Ambassadors, Drama, SAT/ACT Prep, and the LEAP Team.
At Hale Academy we believe that offering a curriculum that is innovative and timely, acknowledging both the traditional and the technological, will serve to unleash the potential of our current and future scholars. Our students are being readied to take their places as leaders and thinkers, innovators and teachers, in 21st century society.
