Burncoat Academy of Math and Science

The society of the 21^st century will need thoughtful, scientifically literate and culturally aware citizens. Workers will require the problem solving skills essential for life-long learners in an ever-changing global society. They will have to collaborate across local and national boundaries, using various technologies, to safeguard and enhance life in the human as will as the natural worlds. To these ends, the Burncoat Academy of Math and Science will be a small, personalized learning environment that develops students’ sense of community responsibility and intellectual and interpersonal capabilities.

Teachers, parents and Holy Cross partners will work together with students to form a community that stresses mutual respect, individual responsibility, collaborative learning and decision-making, learning by investigation, active involvement, mutual support, and a commitment to excellence. On the path to achievement, students will sharpen their inquiry and analytic skills by meeting the challenges inherent in a curriculum that has math and science as a central focus.

The Academy’s small size will ensure an intimate environment in which all students are known well, have the support necessary to meet high expectations and rigorous academic standards, and thus have every opportunity to learn. It will provide the flexibility for the staff and students to work collaboratively to direct their educational experience. It will ensure that teachers and students can embark on meaningful focused and sustained investigations, in school, in the local community and beyond, using electronic communication links.

In an atmosphere of opportunity, support, collaboration and a commitment to achieving high standards, all students will be challenged to achieve their full scholastic potential in all subject areas. All will have an opportunity to demonstrate their developing competence through portfolios and exhibitions. At the same time, each will have a unique opportunity to explore special interests in math and science. Students will understand how to inquire, how to identify and address important questions using the tools of science, and how to apply knowledge responsibly. All will be prepared to pursue post-secondary studies.