Q. Is it possible for my student to take an elective course or participate in sports at our local school?
With the passage of Senate Bill 208 in 2017, high school charter students can participate in interscholastic activities (sports, music, band, and choir) at their resident district. Families with younger students are encouraged to talk directly first with their local school’s principal if they can participate. Participation does require the approval of the local school’s principal.
Students should expect to complete a full school day in their coursework. Elementary students will have a mix of online and paper/pencil based curriculum and usually spend 4-5 hours a day working. Middle through High School students focus more in online courses and work nearly 6 hours a day.
Q. How long will my student spend on the computer everyday?
Q. About the home-visits every two weeks. Is that a requirement, or is this part of your program flexible?
We have learned that every student requires an individualized approach. At our charter, the staff and teachers strive to make every experience a positive one. For example, if your family would prefer fewer home visits, but more virtual interaction, we are happy to make accommodations on a case by case basis.
Q. Is my student required to participate in state testing through your program?
Yes. Like every other public school, we receive state funds to operate our school and therefore must meet state requirements in reference to state testing.
Q. What about students who don't speak English?
A. We offer ESL classes, in addition to other language-level appropriate coursework, our forms and materials are translated into Spanish and Russian, and we do our best to make our school accessible to all students. ESL students will receive individualized instruction from an instructor who guides the students through a standards-based and culturally relevant curriculum.
Q. Will my student's past home school work count for credit?
A. As an accredited school by Cognia we are unable to award core credit for home school work. Students may take CLEP or credit by proficiency tests to gain credit for home school work. We are only able to offer elective credit for home school.
A. Baker Charter Schools offers additional support for students who qualify as IEP or 504 eligible. Services for identified students may vary, depending on each student's specific needs. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the law requires public schools to provide special education services to students ages 3–21 who meet certain criteria. For a student to qualify for special education services, they must have a documented disability that is covered under IDEA and need special education to access the general education curriculum. BCS is committed to providing appropriate services for all enrolled students, regardless of eligibility status or category. Our Special Education team will work to assure curriculum, interventions, and online supports meet each students' individualized needs. Please contact your child's advisory teacher regarding IEP, 504 or other individualized programs or to request more information about the eligibility process.
Q. Do you offer support for Special Education Students or Talented and Gifted Students?
A. All services, both direct and consultation, are delivered virtually.