Program Description

Improved test scores and increasing other indicators of academic achievement are primary goals at Rock Creek Academy. Educating the "whole child" created the need for our school to enhance the areas of social and emotional development, positive educational attitudes, as well as connecting learning to personal, family and community well-being. These connections remain the focus points incorporated into our programs. Our programs embrace diversity of culture, gender, and ability levels, while creating an environment of tolerance and respect for those people who are both alike and different from ourselves.

The new school year began for us with the best news ever: 2007 produced 15 seniors that graduated with a high school diploma. That positive momentum continued into our year as we embraced the philosopy of: change will be inevitable, growth is optional. We planned and implemented the following to start our new year:

Creation of a Behavior Management Team headed by a Dean of Students. This team strategizes for proactive behavior management that will provide improved conditions for effective teaching and learning, as well as an environment of a safe and orderly school.

Commitment to employing a staff consisting of 100% licensed special education and/or content area teachers, as well as licensed related service providers.

Commitment to our 3 building blocks of student success: academics, therapeutic services and behavior modification and how they can support each other.

Enhanced Literacy Program.

Increased efforts in lifeskills and transition classes within the high school programs.

Stated measurable academic goals.

MAP-R and MAP-M Analysis and Student Assessment.

Student Government Association.

Community outreach through our Clinical and Behavior Teams to improve relationships with parents and the community.

Commitment to professional development.

Enhanced features in our automated IEP software system to incorporate report cards.

Enhanced use of technology in the classroom.

Showcasing student cotinuous improvement and positive student outcomes.

The school year has produced its challenges--each year does. We will continue to learn how to make each new year better. Our staff is eager to implement ideas as their professional development continues. Since our school offers best practices and quality services for students with special needs, we look forward in supporting DCPS in their special education reform. This is an enlightening era for special education professionals. We dedicate our efforts to strengthen our school's commitment to those in need of our services -- our students.

Respectfully,
Shawn J. Meade, CEO