A balanced and well-rounded curriculum that prepares scholars for success.
For success in today’s global economy, students need a well-rounded education that builds effective communication, mathematical, scientific, and reasoning skills. At the Academies of Math and Science (AMS), our curriculum helps students develop critical skills that set them on the path to lifelong success. We employ challenging, research-based, and field tested curricula that consistently meets Arizona state standards and exceeds parent expectations.
We believe that smart students are well-rounded. Not only do we consistently perform well above average in state exams, but we also offer students a balanced education that includes technology, computer science, engineering, foreign languages, music, art, and character development.
The Academies of Math and Science curriculum infuses critical thinking and mathematical skills into every grade level. Beginning in kindergarten, AMS students develop skills in number sense, algebraic operations, measurement, data analysis, mathematical thinking, and geometry. Our programs coupled with the math integration into our science program, teaches our students to apply math skills outside of the classroom and learn the relevance of math in today’s world.
Science
The AMS science program is thorough and challenging at all grade levels. AMS students immerse themselves in earth science, physical science, and life science studies with an emphasis on how to use the scientific method to understand, explain, replicate, question, and design their own inquiries in different scientific fields both inside and outside of the classroom. Our robotics club, science Olympiad team, and long-standing participation in the Southern Arizona Research, Science and Engineering Foundation (SARSEF) provide students the opportunity to experience relevant real-world applications of scientific knowledge built in the classroom.
Art
An integral part of our curriculum, the AMS art program is structured in levels centered around the 14 elements and principles of art and design. Art projects at all grade levels introduce or reinforce critical concepts and vocabulary while offering students practice in various media and techniques. Hands-on practice encourages the mastery and retention of core concepts. The art program reinforces other curriculum areas by providing a real world connection between math, language arts, science, social studies, and the arts. For example, younger students explore patterns and symmetry through a pattern bugs project. Older students create visual models and sculptures to represent different concepts in science or social studies.
Physical education
AMS understands the importance of maintaining a healthy mind and body. As such, Physical Education (PE) is a central part of our program. All grade levels participate in PE on a weekly basis. Students in play a variety of games that require the use of both large and small motor functions. AMS students build cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength and build an appreciation of physical fitness. Students learn the traditional rules of a number of sports and are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities. The ultimate goal of the AMS PE program is to foster teamwork in a safe and fun environment while building physical fitness and an appreciation for healthy living.
Exceptional Student Services (ESS)
The Academies of Math & Science fully comply with the requirements of Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and strive to provide meaningful participation for every student with disabilities in the general education population under our inclusion model. The inclusion of ESS students in our full academic program is facilitated through direct services, consultation, and support offered by Special Education Teachers and Special Education support staff.
Homework
Homework is an essential part of our school program. Students are assigned homework daily (amount varies from grade to grade). Homework reinforces and extends learning initiated in the classroom, instills a good work ethic in students, and builds critical project completion habits.
“The more that you read, the more things you will know, the more that you learn, the more places you’ll go” – Dr. Seuss