We are preparing students for all aspects of life beyond graduation.

The IA academic, social & emotional curriculum is motivating.

 

EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY

The Independence Academy is a person-centered school dedicated to delivering a comprehensive, progressive, multi-faceted education for diploma track students on the autism spectrum. Our educational philosophy includes principles of:

  • Creating a learning community in which students feel accepted and understood.

  • Focusing on student engagement and teaching the whole person by incorporating life, emotional, and social skills into a strong to academic curriculum that is developmentally appropriate.

  • Employing deep, authentic research based teaching practices that are inclusive of student interests.

  • Integrating multiple disciplines into lessons and learning programs.

  • Emphasizing the arts through classroom integration.

  • Assessing growth by tracking individual student goals and progress.

  • Promoting acceptance of self and others while honoring our differences and uniqueness in an inclusive, caring environment.

  • Building a love of learning and a sense of independence and strength within students.

 

HOMEWORK

We believe that homework should be manageable for our students. While homework is a part of Independence Academy’s curriculum, emphasis is placed on creating a reasonable workload. Furthermore, we strive to be respectful of cherished family time.

 

TECHNOLOGY

In preparing students for further education and careers, technology use is integrated into the school day. Students have access to laptops and iPads in each classroom, adaptive and dynamic online programs, and a central computer lab.

 

REPORTS + CONFERENCES

Parents can access their student’s grades online at their convenience by logging into their Jupiter account. Please contact the main office office if you need assistance logging in.

Student report cards are distributed at the end of each quarter. Parent-teacher conferences are held twice a year with additional conferences scheduled as needed.

 

GRADING

As a parent, you will be provided with easy to understand grading metrics regarding your student. You will understand their level of mastery.

A
100 to 93%
4.0
A-
92 to 90%
3.7

B+
89 to 87%
3.3
B
86 to 83%
3.0
B-
82 to 80%
2.7

C+
79 to 77%
2.3
C
76 to 73%
2.0
C-
72 to 70%
1.7

D+
69 to 67%
1.3
D
66 to 63%
1.0
D-
62 to 60%
0.7

F
59 to 0%
0.0