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Benefits of a K-8 School

High Plains School offers Early Childhood - Eighth (EC-8) educational programming to ensure excellence in education. An EC-8 school offers seamless transitions between the elementary and middle school grades, and supports the development of long-term relationships with students and families.

Collaboration

In an EC-8 school there is a collective responsibility for the success of all students as they move from primary to intermediate to middle level grades. The structure of an EC-8 school enhances teacher collaboration and articulation within and across grade levels. Teachers collaborate to plan an integrated curriculum that connects learning across a wider range of disciplines and/or grade levels.

Student Achievement and Responsive Instruction

An EC-8 school’s unique structure supports high levels of student achievement. An EC-8 school allows for flexible educational opportunities within and across grade levels. In addition to core classes, students have opportunities for enrichment and intervention.

Fewer Grade Transitions

An EC-8 school reduces the number of transitions a student experiences during their EC-12 school career. This reduction in transitions supports students by helping them develop long-term relationships with peers and adults. The transition between elementary and middle school is smoother because students can focus on learning instead of learning new building layouts, practices and procedures, and staff.

Relationships

An EC-8 school supports the development of the whole child by fostering academic achievement and social/emotional well-being. Students, teachers, staff, and families are likely to build and maintain strong relationships over the course of nine years.

Modeling and Mentoring

An EC-8 structure allows elementary and middle school students to interact and engage through positive experiences that foster leadership abilities in students and develop a shared ownership and responsibility to each other.

Family Involvement

An EC-8 environment supports a common purpose and safe environment. Parents and community members stay involved in an EC-8 school. The nine plus year program supports the development of lasting relationships among students, staff, parents, and community members.