Yaak Elementary School - K-8

Philosophy

Education is a life-long process and is a shared responsibility of the students, the schools, the family and the community at large.

The educational process should stress acquisition of the basic skills of communication and mastery of academic subjects. Because individual aptitudes and abilities vary, so should the curriculum be broad enough to meet the needs of all students, including the academically inclined and the academically and physically challenged, without regard to gender, race, creed or religion.

To be successful, students should be proficient in the basic skills of mathematics, reading, writing, speaking and listening. Communication, a key to the future, requires both understanding those from other cultures and knowledge of the use of technology. To be adequately prepared for high school, students should learn oral and written expression, information gathering and problem solving, as well as critical and independent thinking. This process will prepare our students for successful transition to a secondary school.

Educational Goals

1. Despite declining enrollment and funding, all students will have access to:
a. a rigorous curriculum, and a rich and varied school program in a safe, positive environment conducive to learning
b. a highly qualified teacher

2. All students will be given opportunities to participate in educational and cultural enrichment activities, as well as be recognized and rewarded for individual contributions to their school.

3. For regular education students, we will maintain 100% of the current at-proficient/above-proficient student scores on the math and reading portions of the Smarter Balanced Test.

4. For special education students, we will maintain existing at-proficient/above-proficient student test scores in all areas and increase below-proficient scores on the Smarter Balanced Test, and/or alternative assessment tests. All special education students shall meet the goals of their IEP.

5. Identifying students’ personal educational range and assist them to perform at their own personal highest achievement level.

6. Our curricula will incorporate cultural-awareness education and in particular, the distinct and unique heritage of Native Americans.