The
Claus Academy

"If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn" -Ignacio Estrada

The Claus Philosophy.

Trust, independence, and engagement form the foundation of our educational model. While we require students to demonstrate competency in a number of traditional subject and functional areas, they are expected to work closely with teachers to design and execute their own educational agenda. Claus's teachers serve as coordinators and advisors to students, helping them to obtain and utilize the resources they need to learn and develop, from finding mentors to learning algebra.

How We're Different

  • Individualized Education - We individually assess each student and design a project-based learning program to address her strengths and weaknesses.
  • Technology Integration - No matter where students go after Claus, they will be expected to be competent with computers and the Internet. Therefore, we encourage students to make use of these tools in their education. We offer a number of Internet-enabled computers, some with printers and scanners.
  • Mentorship Through Work Experience - We help each student find productive internships in a field of interest, with an industry practitioner who simultaneously serves as a mentor to the student.
  • Community Focus - Community service activities help students develop self-esteem, improve communication abilities, and learn the value of service. We expect students to regularly participate in community service, and we plan occasional group service activities to further develop the Claus community.
  • 21st Century Thinking - Our globalized society exposes individuals to many more opinions, ideologies, and potential conflicts than ever before. Therefore, we engage students in questioning, critical thinking, and compassion to prepare them for the multi-faceted and dynamic world in which we live.

Trust

Confidence in our students enables them to develop a love for learning through their own interests.

Independence

Each student has complete independence in program development. We provide tools and guidance to ensure continued learning, but we expect each student to choose the medium.

Engagement

Love of learning can only be found in subjects that interest a student. Trust and independence allow each student to develop an educational program in which she can become fully engaged.