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Tahoe Kids Academy

Academy

Curriculum, pillars, values, and principles

Curriculum

A balanced program across academics, languages, arts, and wellness

Core Academics

  • Language Arts — Literacy, reading comprehension, and writing
  • Mathematics — Number sense, operations, and problem-solving
  • Curriculum tailored by grade level from K through Grade 4
  • Socratic discussions encourage questioning and understanding

Science — PLTW Launch

  • Hands-on STEM powered by Project Lead The Way Launch
  • Life science, physical science, and earth & space science
  • Activity, project, and problem-based learning approach
  • Engineering design process: sketch, build, test, and reflect
  • Topics include materials science, engineering, and nature

Life Skills

  • Teamwork & Leadership
  • Storytelling & Public Speaking
  • Entrepreneurship & Financial Literacy
  • Relationship Building & Socialization
  • Social-Emotional & Community Service

Spanish

  • Lessons covering hybrid immersion-based learning
  • Vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational skills
  • Topics include family, animals, food, emotions, and community
  • Taught through interactive stories, games, and hands-on activities
  • Students explore the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world

Art

  • Drawing, painting, and mixed-media projects
  • Integrated into academic and STEM projects throughout the week
  • Students explore color, texture, and creative expression

Nutrition

  • Lessons covering the food pyramid and macronutrients
  • Protein, healthy fats, fruits & vegetables, and whole grains
  • Sugar awareness and real vs. processed food
  • Portion control, smart snacking, and grocery shopping skills

Physical Education

  • At least an hour per week
  • Movement, exercises, and games
  • Builds strength, coordination, and healthy habits

Play Time

  • 1.5 hours of daily play built into the schedule
  • Outdoor and indoor free play fostering creativity and social skills

Program Pillars

The foundations of our curriculum

Learning & Inquiry

We build strong academic foundations with Socratic discussions that encourage questioning, critical analysis, and deeper understanding of concepts.

Play-Based & Hands-On Growth

We foster curiosity and joyful discovery through Montessori-inspired activities, gamified academics, and tailored plans.

Leadership & Innovation

We cultivate leadership skills through thoughtful lessons, while nurturing natural creativity to spark innovative ideas that shape future endeavors.

Social-Emotional & Character Building

We develop emotional strength and communication skills through group activities and meaningful interactions that emphasize ownership, courage, and compassion.

Community & Family

We create a collaborative space where children work together, drawing on family and shared values to encourage teamwork and develop relationships.

Health & Nutrition

We promote physical well-being through nutrition education and exercises that build strength, energy, and healthy habits.

Core Values

The values that shape our community

Leadership

Developing skills to guide and inspire others.

Integrity

We do what is right even when no one is watching.

Excellence

We pursue growth with humility and effort.

Respect

Showing courtesy and consideration.

Courage

Encouraging boldness in facing life's challenges.

Grace

Practicing forgiveness to foster understanding and unity.

Curiosity

We ask thoughtful questions and pursue wisdom.

Fortitude

Facing challenges with perseverance and a positive attitude.

Operating Principles

How we work with our families

Accountability & Transparency

We keep parents informed, follow through on commitments, and model the character we expect in our students.

Engagement & Partnership

Parents are the primary influence in a child’s life. We communicate openly, collaborate intentionally, and honor the role of the family.

Warmth & Safety

Every child is seen, heard, and valued. Emotional and physical safety are foundational to learning.

Civility & Discourse

Our staff demonstrate civility by listening to families, responding gracefully, and building mutual respect.

Teacher reading to students in classroom