We Are 100% Ready For Online OR Hybrid Learning!
All our curriculum is fully capable of being taught online with live teacher instruction, feedback, and communication in all content areas, and we are prepared to assist families in need of appropriate technology at home. We are committed to providing a framework of learning that is engaging and fits individual student needs, whether learning from home or in a classroom. Student academic, social, emotional, and safety needs are a priority within our charter school!
Our Instructional Approach
Southwest Preparatory provides a unique blended learning environment that includes direct teacher instruction in our Core curriculum, online learning, community-based learning, and a cooperative teaching approach. This departmentalized system allows teachers to focus on fewer subjects, which provides for a greater level of expertise and deeper understanding for students. Because of this, our teachers have a greater ability to differentiate their instruction to meet the needs of all learners. This also allows teachers to bond with more students, not just their homeroom.
What to Expect
The Southwest Preparatory classroom schedule is from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday thru Friday. We follow Albuquerque Public Schools yearly calendar for holidays and breaks.
We treat each core subject area independently as the concepts and depth of study in each area expand. A heavy emphasis is placed on expanding vocabulary using words the students are exposed to through the core subjects: language arts, math, social studies, and science. The curriculum is closely tied to the Common Core standards and the national English Language Learner standards.
At Southwest Preparatory, our students’ education is supplemented with Physical Education, Smart Lab, STEM, Spanish, and Fine Arts. Every classroom is fully equipped with laptops for each student to utilize technology.
Community-Based Activities (CBAs) are taken several times a year to supplement the curriculum, and may include the following:
- Popejoy Hall and Kiva Auditorium
- Sandia Tram and Hiking
- NM Museum of Natural History and Science
- El Rancho de las Golondrinas
- Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument
- Albuquerque Area Activities and Events
- And much more!
Math
Students explore topics in numeration, place value, operations, fact fluency, algebra, geometry, and problem-solving. A variety of strategies are offered as students investigate and solve multiple step story problems. Real-life application is emphasized and higher-level thinking is carefully developed. Classroom activities typically include large and small group instruction, practice, support, and enrichment. Teachers utilize a hands-on and pictorial approach before moving to abstract and higher-level activities.
Language Arts
Language arts instruction focuses on reading comprehension, critical thinking, vocabulary, Greek and Latin roots, and written expression. Students are expected to read grade-level appropriate novels as part of the curriculum. Writing instruction includes formal and informal, evidence-based, creative, and poetic writing. Students are exposed to word processing skills as part of the writing curriculum and are encouraged to edit and improve their writing. Students will have individualized reading goals in addition to classroom expectations. Classroom activities typically include large and small group instruction, practice, support, and enrichment.
Social Studies
Social Studies and History instruction in each grade level follow Common Core State Standards Initiatives and current events utilizing Scholastic News. Students demonstrate learning through research, writing, presentations, and creative projects.
Science
Science in the classroom is designed for building inquiry and STEM skills and is optimized for learning in the classroom or at home, on a laptop, tablet, or using a science textbook. The digital curriculum, virtual labs, and hands-on activities develop important critical-thinking skills that prepare students for success in future science courses and the workplace. The curriculum is a balance of Earth Science, Physical Science, and Life Science.
