SOAR Academy

LOCATION

Colorado Springs at North Gate: 13280 Touchstone View, Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (Dart Wars Building)

SCHEDULE

Twice weekly schedule allows for SOAR Academy (tuition based) to be paired with Falcon AeroLab (state- funded) classes for a third day of programming for a robust and exciting jr high/ high school experience! 

SOAR Academy meets Tuesday and Thursday from 9:00am -3:00pm (optional additional elective 3:00-4:00)

Suggested Falcon AeroLab classes to pair with SOAR Academy

Courses offered

Sciences- Our science program will provide hands-on labs that fuel student excitement for discovery, while also encouraging them to embrace the curiosity-driven mindset of a scientist, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students will gain a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and develop the confidence to approach complex challenges with ingenuity and creativity.

Math- Our math program, led by passionate instructors with a deep love for mathematics, instills strong foundational knowledge, fosters deep understanding, and encourages practical applications, ensuring students excel in both theory and real-world contexts.

Math placement at SOAR Academy is based on a variety of assessments, to include but not limited to: Diagnostic Test Scores, Placement test and previous transcript grades.

In our inaugural year, Algebra II will be taught during the Optional elective time slot. These students will begin the day at 10:30am and end at 4:30pm.

World Languages- Spanish and French classes will be offered. World language courses will introduce the use of the language in the classroom both in written and oral communication. As an integral part of their study, students will be exposed to numerous aspects of the culture including the history, art, literature, foods, holidays, and traditions related to the language they are studying.  The benefits of studying another language extend far beyond the knowledge of the language.

Electives- Our semester-long elective courses offer engaging experiences tailored to diverse interests, providing students with opportunities to delve deeply into subjects they're excited about while gaining valuable skills.

• Forensic Science- This course will introduce the student to the many different disciplines in forensic science, including: crime scene investigation, finger printing, trace evidence, and DNA. There will be hands-on learning and experiments throughout the course.

• Robotics- Students will explore the exciting world of robotics. Through hands-on activities and collaborative projects, members will learn fundamental concepts in robotics, problem-solving skills, and teamwork, igniting their passion for innovation and technology.

• Entrepreneurship and Leadership- Students will explore the fundamentals of entrepreneurship. Through interactive lessons and real-world projects, including managing the school's spirit shop, students will develop essential skills in market analysis, financial planning, and marketing strategies. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to develop their own business ideas and receive guidance and mentorship. Students will also take charge of planning social activities while also developing character and leadership skills through guest speaker sessions. Mentors will curate book club selections focused on character and leadership, fostering discussions that inspire growth, alongside engaging in service projects to positively impact our community.

• International Relations (High School Students Only)- This course examines the historical, political, cultural, and geographic dimensions of U.S. international relations. It will examine past and present U.S. policies, define international relations theories and concepts, and emphasize ”how and why” the U.S. partners with other countries to contribute to global defense and security objectives. It will trace the strategic, operational, and tactical methods and means by which the U.S. encourages and enables foreign partners to achieve bilateral or multilateral objectives and goals.

• Fundamentals of Engineering (High School Students Only)- Fundamentals of Engineering” applies various physics principles to solve engineering problems across a variety of different engineering disciplines. It will teach students to analyze a problem and logically solve it, using the many engineering tools that will be learned. 

NOTE about Curriculum: Elements of our curriculum are faith-based, rooted in our shared values and beliefs. However, it's important to note that in our science classes, students will be exposed to and encouraged to discuss all theories, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of scientific concepts. We believe in fostering critical thinking while respecting diverse perspectives, allowing students to explore and appreciate the wonders of science in a supportive environment.

Tuition & other fees

Registration fee: $300/ student

Tuition Cost for 2024-25 School year is $3000. This cost includes SOAR Academy curriculum, texts and coursework for grades 7th-10th.

An additional elective period can be added for $700/ year.

• The additional elective period is also open to students outside of SOAR Academy and can be taken as a stand alone option. *The course must meet an 8 student minimum to run.

FAQs

Are there scholarship available?

At this time SOAR Academy does not offer any scholarships.  Payment plans can be arranged to spread out the tuition.

Can a sibling/non attending student enroll in the additional elective class?

Yes, students 7th grade and above are able to enroll in the additional elective period for the above stated cost without being enrolled in the full program.

Can my student enroll in just one core class?

No, our program is not an al’acart program.  The classes from 9am-3pm are part of the whole SOAR Academy. While we understand that attending just one class may seem convenient, our intention is to create an environment where students can form meaningful connections and support networks with their peers. By participating in all classes, students have the opportunity to engage consistently with their classmates, collaborate on projects, and develop lasting friendships that extend beyond the classroom. This commitment to full programming helps cultivate a sense of belonging and unity within our student body.

Our family enjoys traveling; can we travel and still be enrolled in SOAR Academy?

Here at SOAR we acknowledge that one of the many reasons families choose to homeschool is for the freedom of schedule.  We would ask that if there is a planned extended absence that student/parents communicate with instructors to ensure that the course load is not neglected.

Will our family be refunded tuition for days missed?

No, the tuition is set for the year and classes will not be refunded for skipping/missing classes as the program’s expenses are fixed well in advance of the academic year.

Does my homeschool status change?

No, SOAR Academy is a facilitator for homeschool families.  We are here to come alongside homeschool families to provide exceptional instructors in the STEM field.

Is SOAR Academy an umbrella school?

No, SOAR Academy is not an umbrella school.  SOAR Academy is a homeschool option for families that want to “outsource” Science, Math, World Languages, and Electives.

Will SOAR Academy provide transcripts?

SOAR Academy instructors will provide letter grades to the students in their classes.  As homeschool families you are responsible for student transcripts and files.  As a homeschool family you have the right to utilize the grades, course descriptions and syllabi that are issued by our instructors for your student’s transcripts.

My student is advanced, can they be placed in a higher class that is listed in the course description?

Each student will be given a math placement test, as well as the first few weeks of class, instructors will be evaluating proper student placements.  We will work closely with families and students to make sure that your student is being appropriately challenged.

Will there be cross over between Junior High and Senior High Students?

Although it is our intention to have passing periods and lunch periods separate, during electives students can be mixed.

Is this is faith based program?

SOAR Academy is a private program that values creating critical thinkers who are college, career and community ready.  None of our curriculum choices are strictly religious. 

What is the expected homework load for my student?

SOAR Academy does not foresee a large homework load for the students.  Students will be expected to take responsibility for their time management and class workload as well as ownership is a commitment to be prepared for each class.

Will there be classes offered virtually?

SOAR Academy does not plan to offer virtual classes.  The nature of our program is hands on, community building and relationship centered.

Will the teachers have office hours outside of the class time to answer questions? Assist with subjects?

Our instructors are committed to the students success. Accommodations for additional educational support will be decided on an individual basis, dependent on the level of resources required, with the instructor. 

How are the World Languages levels designated?

SOAR Academy will be prepared to differentiate the student’s abilities and make necessary accommodations.  

Can my student still participate in Falcon AeroLab?

Yes, SOAR Academy encourages students to partake in the resources available through Falcon AeroLab.  There are many classes that Falcon AeroLab offers that would compliment the schedule of SOAR.

Does the cost of Falcon AeroLab change if my student enrolls in SOAR?

No, since SOAR Academy is a private program students are able to facilitate the public funds of Falcon AeroLab.

Are there uniforms or a dress code that is enforced? How is it enforced?

We encourage students to come to each day of class ready to learn both physically and aesthetically.  Students clothes should be free of holes.  Shirts should cover shoulders.  Shorts should cover lower bodies modestly.  SOAR Academy recommends that students come dressed in bottoms that are blue, black or khaki.  Shirts must be solid in color.

What are the student behavior standards?

SOAR Academy expects students to take initiative and direction for their education.  SOAR Academy instructors come from military backgrounds and there is a level of respect due and earned by all individuals.  As students age they need to take on personal responsibility for themselves in action, word and deed.

What is SOAR Academy’s stance on tech in the classroom/campus?

SOAR Academy recommends that tech be left at home or placed in a central location at the campus so as to not be a distraction to the student or their peers.

How does SOAR Academy compare to Colorado State Standards?

SOAR Academy has looked at the Colorado State Standards and set that as our minimum standard.  We are committed to the students to prepare them for their post high school goals.  No student should leave SOAR Academy lacking in their requirements for Math, Science, World Language or Electives.

If my student attends SOAR Academy will they be ready for Service Academy? Trade Schools? University? College?

SOAR Academy is committed to come alongside student and families and foster the needed information for all post high school goals.