K- 8 Core Knowledge Curriculum

Windsor Charter Academy’s elementary and middle school utilizes the Core Knowledge curriculum. The Core Knowledge curriculum provides students with a broad base of knowledge, encompassing language arts, mathematics, science, history, geography, fine arts, and physical education. Core Knowledge is characterized by knowledge that is:

• Context-Rich: Unchanging knowledge such as important events of world history.

• Sequential and Cumulative: A planned progression building on students' previous knowledge and eliminating excessive repetition and gaps.

• Content Specific: Clearly defined knowledge at each grade level ensuring fairness for all students.

• Coherent: Explicit knowledge identifies what children should learn at each grade level to ensure an articulated approach to building knowledge across all grade levels.

The Core Knowledge concept is based on the belief that knowledge builds upon knowledge. Core Knowledge builds background knowledge with an instructional focus on rich, classic literature.

Our vision of educating, empowering and equipping students to reach their highest potential is evident in our state awards and high graduation rates. K-8 Core Knowledge curriculum is known for its emphasis on college, career, and citizen readiness. At our elementary and middle schools, we emphasizes these objectives through tenets of cultural literacy. Students graduate with an appreciation for different cultures as they study world history. Understanding the rich tapestry of ancient and modern civilizations and their contributions- scientifically, politically, and artistically - enlightens our students to the joys of diversity and equips them as global citizens. 

Developing competencies through cultural literacy that empower students to explore community and cultural connections is a hallmark of Core Knowledge. At our schools, we emphasizes the importance of life-long learning in a dynamic world.

Creative and critical thinking are necessary skills for students to possess as they learn to address challenges and opportunities. In an effort to develop creative and critical thinking skills through our Core Knowledge program, we bring the world to our students’ fingertips through art and technology. Art fosters 21st century learning through creativity and an increased understanding of culture. Technology brings the world to learners as students explore areas that are current and relevant. Our students’ worldview widens through exploratory learning and members of distant communities become next door neighbors to our children.

STEM Focus

Windsor Charter Academy is unique in its educational approach. We believe that the foundational philosophies of Core Knowledge, paired with STEM principles, is a powerful partnership. While many Core Knowledge schools follow a classical approach and use limited or no technology in the classroom, Windsor Charter Academy embraces STEM principles.

Windsor Charter Academy is a 1:1 technology school; every student has access to an iPad or a Chromebook. Our elementary school has an innovation lab, complete with virtual reality (VR) equipment, 3-D printers, green screens, and robots.

As educators prepare students to be global citizens, students must have creative opportunities that utilize technology in their learning. Meaningful technology integration, that enriches student learning, facilitates enthusiasm, high student engagement, and innovative thinking.

Gifted & Talented Program (GATE) 

To support Windsor Charter Academy’s vision of growing students that are “educated, empowered, and equipped to reach their highest potential,” all students receive consideration for gifted identification through a gifted screening process. Gifted identification ensures that appropriate programming is utilized to meet the academic needs and post-secondary outcomes of identified students. 

To learn more about our Gifted and Talented Program, click here.