Mathematics

Students work at their instructional level using one of the following programs:

• CTC Math

• Khan Academy

• Zearn

• Saxon Math

• Singapore Math

Goal setting, progress tracking, and individualized support help learners build strong mathematical foundations and confidence.

Language Arts

Students strengthen reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, and communication skills through:

• Lexia Core 5 / Lexia Power Up

• IEW Writing

• Fix It! Grammar

• IEW Phonetic Zoo Spelling

• Independent Reading

• Read-Alouds

• Socratic Discussions

• Writing Workshops

History & Science

Unlike core academics, history and science allow greater flexibility for exploration, discussion, and project-based learning.

Learners investigate ideas through:

• Literature

• Discussions

• Presentations

• Experiments

• Research

• Collaborative projects

This approach allows students to develop curiosity while still covering important content and concepts.

Spanish & Enrichment

Students participate in weekly Spanish instruction with a native speaker and also engage in a variety of enrichment opportunities throughout the year. These activities may include:

• Future City

• JA BizTown

• Finance Park

• LEGO Robotics

• Debate

• STEM Challenges

• Student Presentations

• TedEd Student Talks

• Passion Projects

Technology & Screen Time

Students typically spend approximately 2 hours per day using technology for personalized math, reading, writing, research, and project work. The remainder of the day includes discussions, reading, writing, presentations, collaboration, hands-on learning, and outdoor play. Recreational internet use, gaming, and YouTube are not part of the school day.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Some of the most memorable learning happens when students can apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Throughout the year, Harris Academy learners participate in field experiences, competitions, service projects, presentations, and hands-on learning opportunities that extend beyond traditional academics.

Examples include:

• JA BizTown and Finance Park

• Future City

• Feed My Starving Children

• OdySea Aquarium

• Arizona Museum of Natural History

• Museum of Illusions

• Schnepf Farms

• Local community service opportunities

Learners also help plan celebrations, participate in creative projects, present their work to others, and contribute to the life of our learning community. These experiences build confidence, responsibility, collaboration, leadership, and real-world problem-solving skills. Every year looks a little different, shaped by learner interests, community opportunities, and the unique experiences available to our group.

At Harris Academy, students build strong academic foundations while developing confidence, responsibility, and independence. Through a balance of mastery, exploration, discussion, and meaningful work, learners grow at an appropriate pace while becoming increasingly capable and self-directed.

A Day at Harris Academy

Our days follow a consistent rhythm that balances academic mastery, meaningful discussion, exploration, and community.

Morning Meeting

Each day begins with community connection, reflection, goal setting, and leadership development. Learners build habits of responsibility while preparing for a productive day.

Core Academic Work Cycle

The heart of our program is a dedicated, uninterrupted work cycle where learners focus on personalized goals in math, reading, writing, grammar, and other core subjects. This extended block allows students to develop concentration, perseverance, independence, and ownership of their learning.

Read-Aloud & Discussion

Students engage with quality literature through read-alouds and thoughtful discussions that strengthen comprehension, communication, and critical thinking.

Exploration & Enrichment

Afternoons provide opportunities for history, science, Spanish, presentations, STEM challenges, service projects, competitions, and other enrichment experiences. This time allows learners to apply their knowledge, explore new ideas, and make meaningful connections across subjects.

Mastery + Exploration

At Harris Academy, we balance mastery and exploration.

In core subjects such as math and language arts, students follow personalized, mastery-based learning paths that allow them to build strong foundations and progress at an appropriate pace. Learners receive individualized support, set goals, track progress, and work toward mastery of essential skills.

In history, science, and other enrichment areas, learning is more exploratory and discussion-based. While we cover important concepts and broad content areas, we maintain flexibility to follow student interests, ask meaningful questions, pursue deeper investigations, and connect learning across subjects. This approach encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the world.

By combining structured skill development with opportunities for exploration, we help learners build both competence and curiosity.

Core Academics

Our Academic Program