The CRA curriculum includes engaging learning experiences that involve students in complex real-world projects through which they develop and apply skills and knowledge. Such project-based learning empowers students with skills needed for success for today and tomorrow.

• Learning at CRA is based upon inquiry and guiding questions.
• Challenging and relevant texts are integrated into all grade level curriculums.
• Through modeling and instruction, students learn to respect and challenge intellectual ideas, to question responses and to form opinions in an environment where it is physically and emotionally safe to be a learner.
• Students frequently work in cooperative learning groups. Through questioning, debate and expression, students examine their points of view, as well as the perspectives of others.
• Students explore a variety of cultures, races, religions, gender, health, political and other belief systems. Students learn to recognize and appreciate the differences and similarities between peoples.
• Students’ academic development is monitored by a comprehensive Multi-tiered System of Supports, (MTSS). MTSS is a systemic improvement framework in which data based problem solving and decision-making is practiced.
• Assessment modifications are made to meet the needs of any individuals with learning differences. Assessment is an integral part of the learning process, providing a valuable tool for reflection and growth.

Community Roots Academy (“CRA”) is a Kindergarten through eighth grade learning community where learning is embedded in a meaningful real world context and where children are deliberately taught to see the connections between their formal education and the world. Not only are CRA students taught to meet and exceed the California content standards, but they also are enabled as leaders now and for the future by learning to think independently, to solve problems creatively, to articulate their ideas and to work productively while collaborating with diverse people. At CRA, students learn to combine curiosity and application, leading to a deep understanding of content, self-motivation and confidence. These skill sets empower students to take on challenges to become who they want to be and excel beyond their potential.

VISION
CRA is a learning community with rigorous academic standards. We are dedicated to building strong relationships between all of our members. We are a learning environment that embodies the 21st century values we teach and practice. Collaboration, creativity, adaptability, reflection and evaluation are embedded in the CRA philosophy, governance, curriculum and daily operations. CRA supports and values children’s different learning styles and strives to reach all students through a meaningful project-based curriculum. Our educators will collaborate with community-based organizations to create learning experiences to build efficacy, confidence, empathy, a sense of purpose and connections to the real world. CRA is a place to learn about whom we are and empowers us to grow into the individuals we aspire to be. CRA students graduate as independent thinkers, responsible citizens and active community members.

CRA is a learning community with rigorous academic standards. We are dedicated to building strong relationships between all of our members. We are a learning environment that embodies the 21st century values we teach and practice. Collaboration, creativity, adaptability, reflection and evaluation are embedded in the CRA philosophy, governance, curriculum and daily operations. CRA supports and values children’s different learning styles and strives to reach all students through a meaningful project-based curriculum. Our educators will collaborate with community-based organizations to create learning experiences to build efficacy, confidence, empathy, a sense of purpose and connections to the real world.

CRA is a place to learn about whom we are and empowers us to grow into the individuals we aspire to be. CRA students graduate as independent thinkers, responsible citizens and active community members.

A CRA education builds the skills, knowledge and attitudes that empower individuals to thrive in their future.

• Values for Today and Tomorrow – CRA instills the skills for success in our global society: mastery of fundamental academic skills in addition to problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration, initiative, effective communication, imagination, adaptability and the ability to evaluate information. We teach and live these values in our philosophy, governance, curriculum and operation.
• Project-Based Curriculum – The CRA curriculum includes engaging learning experiences that involve students in complex real-world projects through which they develop and apply skills and knowledge. Project-based learning empowers students with the skills for success for today and Tomorrow.
• Community Partnership – Community partnership is integral to effective education. Strong communities foster positive development in students. The CRA community will include students, parents, administration, teachers, community-based organizations, universities and national and international educational institutions.
• Model Learning Community – At CRA, all members of our professional community continually seek learning and growth opportunities. Faculty and staff participate in an extensive professional development program and also partner with colleagues to foster a challenging academic environment for all. Highly qualified and motivated teachers collaborate in decision-making and develop curriculum while guiding, supporting and evaluating students.
• Environmental Stewardship – CRA curriculum, policies and practices are designed to promote environmental awa