Our Learning Programs

Mastery-based + Inquiry-driven Learning

At Harris Academy, we blend mastery‑based instruction in Mathematics and English Language Arts (ELA) with hands‑on, inquiry‑driven exploration in Science and History. Our Math toolkit includes Zearn, CTC Math, Khan Academy, and Saxon Math—each chosen to help learners build deep understanding, confidence, and real‑world application.

We believe in “following the child,” tailoring each learner’s path so they feel empowered, challenged, and excited to grow. Our guides set high expectations, foster critical thinking, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning.

A Day at Harris Academy

Our four‑period structure balances community, core skills, collaboration, and creativity:

1. Community & Reflection
   We start each morning by nurturing character and a growth mindset. Learners practice time management, set intentions for their day, and reflect on personal goals—building the self‑awareness that fuels success.

2. Core Skills & Academics
   The heart of our program: focused work in Mathematics and ELA (reading, grammar, spelling, writing), alongside dynamic Spanish language lessons that introduce vocabulary, conversation, and cultural insights. We’re laying the groundwork now so that, in the coming years, Spanish will evolve into a true immersion experience.

3. Collaborative Activities
   Students learn to work in teams, participate in group discussions, engage in Socratic dialogue, and take part in debates, while also collaborating on Science and History projects in our quarterly Showcases.

4. Project Time
   As an extension of their collaborative work, learners design and lead their own hands‑on projects—whether that’s running a science experiment, choreographing a dance, or writing and performing a short play. This creative time sparks independence and authentic problem solving.

Field Trips & Electives

Field Trips or on-site learning visits are an essential part of our experience at Harris Academy, as they inspire curiosity and enhance classroom knowledge through exciting hands-on experiences. We include Community‑Partnered Electives like: BizTown (JA’s small‑town business simulation), Finance Park (JA’s real‑world budgeting and personal finance experience), and Future City (Discovery‑engineered, student‑led city design competition).

Some of our past field trips include visits to Schnepf Farms, Odysea Aquarium, the Museum of Illusions, the Natural History Museum, Feed My Starving Children, our local fire station, and a local elderly home to spread Christmas cheer.

Our learners plan our holiday parties, have participated in hatching chicks, put on art gallery shows for parents, and dive in, really, just about anything they want to learn - be it sewing, art, or pickleball!