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ABOUT OUR SCHOOLS


ROOM TO GROW

Oakland and Arbor Academies opened in September of 1998 with a full program for kindergarten through second grade.  Since opening, additional grades have been added. This fall we are offering K-6 classes.  Kindergarten classes are available in the morning and afternoon.  Enrollment is limited to 20 students per class.  New classroom buildings were completed in the Summer of 1999!  Each building can house 120 students.

The Arbor Academy in Battle Creek is located adjacent to the Lakeview Child Development Center.  Similarly, the Oakland Academy in Portage is adjacent to the Oakland Child Development Center.  The proximity of these programs allows the Academies to benefit from services available through the CDCs.  One of the primary benefits is the availability of before and after school care for students who attend the Academy.  In addition, the CDC offers child care and academic enrichment programs for siblings 2 weeks through 12 years - even when school is not in session.  As a result, siblings can start and finish each day together at the same location for the full calendar year.  Academy students and their siblings receive priority consideration for all CDC vacancies. 

Our close working relationship with the Foundation for Behavioral Resources and Grand Valley State University offers your child access to the best development and curriculum resources.  Growing with Oakland and Arbor Academies guarantees consistent teaching methods and guidelines to maintain a safe and learning-rich environment.

HANDS-ON

Your child's academic goals exceed the guidelines of the State of Michigan Board of Education MODEL CORE CURRICULUM OUTCOMES.  We rely on teaching methods that unlock your child's preferred learning style and help your child experience learning through all of their senses.  Books, field trips, computers, learning stations, science centers, specialists, and more will assist your child in gaining and applying new skills.   

Parents also impact peak performance by providing opportunities to study at home, initiating and responding to teacher and staff communication, and adhering to school schedules and dress code.  Parents are always welcome to assist with classroom activities and field trips.


NURTURING FRIENDSHIP

Building positive peer and staff relationships go hand in hand with scholastic success.  We work diligently to help students develop positive relationships with each other, regardless of age, background, or abilities.  The Academy's staff work to teach children how to resolve conflict independently with solutions that respect the needs of all involved.  It is a learning environment that fosters mutual respect and enjoyment.

TIME TO SHINE

Oakland and Arbor Academy teachers creatively use curricular materials and teaching methods to ensure students reach established social and academic goals.  Progress is monitored daily and shared with the principal and parents on a regular basis.  Weekly progress reports allow student needs and achievements to quickly stand out.  Regular, detailed evaluations also recognize individual talents, leadership skills, and team participation.  Teachers continuously recognize and share outstanding efforts with students and parents to create a team approach to each child's development. 

LEAPING AHEAD

Early success in education is a great indicator of future performance in school and adult life.  With Oakland and Arbor Academy's small student-instructor ratio, strong parent involvement, proven curriculum and methods, every child will be guaranteed an equal opportunity to reach his or her personal best.  Call (269) 731-5775 for a tour or to receive an Academy handbook and application.

PURSUE EXCELLENCE

At the Arbor Academy or Oakland Academy, your child will join an experienced team of professional educators dedicated to individual growth.  Each Academy focuses on the basics: reading, language, mathematics, art, science and civics.  Materials and methods employed by our certified teachers and aides are proven to yield exceptional results, especially with a student-instructor ratio of ten to one.  Individual progress is closely monitored and shared with staff and parents for timely student encouragement and improvement.

The Arbor Academy in Lakeview and the Oakland Academy in Portage are the result of years of experience and study of early childhood development by the Foundation for Behavioral Resources.  The mission of both schools is to provide the best fundamental education possible in an environment that fosters enthusiasm, competence, appreciation, and responsibility.  The Academies are overseen by Grand Valley State University.  Both are tuition-free public schools open to all residents, regardless of their current school district.  Enrollment is limited.

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