At TLE Christian Academy we are dedicated to maintain an environment where all and every student learns and can reach his or her fullest potential. The way we see it there are MMMM steps to make this come true. More details on each point below can be found during other headlines in this website.
Selection process
We are very careful in the selection process because our format offers a lot of flexibility and many of our projects are completed out in the community. Therefore we are looking for students with a commitment to learning, and parents who care for their students education. Parents who are willing to show their child in action that they are interested in learning, have more motivated students. TLE is not a place for students who display behavioral problems or lack of respect for authorities.
Reinforce TLE Values
I am not here thinking only about our values and mission but specifically our code of conduct and dress code. These rules are set up to limit the level of student distraction in class and thus make it possible for the teachers to teach. Another way that the values are communicated is through a Behavioral Index. This index summarizes to what extent the student: obey authority - serves the school and community - pull other students to learn - is committed to his / her own learning. Once a month each student has a meeting with the Rector (high school) and Dr Dee (underclassmen) to assess their situation and possible remedies.
Teacher's commitment
All our teachers are committed to teaching their students learning NOT just their course. This means that they all have accepted and work towards mastery in the teaching of Wilkinson " 7 Laws of the Learner". Our highest goal as teachers is to have students learn. That is why we see a grade below B as a great concern which needs immediate action.
No Nonsense, multilevel curriculum
For each subject we carefully select/design the curriculum that allow a) multilevel teaching which allows students to explore higher levels as he / she desires; b) no-nonsense which means that our goal is get the students to achieve mastery and retention in each curriculum without busy work. c) multi sensory curriculum which allows students to learn the material the way that fits their style.
Career Ladder - Incentives / Awards
Incentives are another way apart from loss of privileges that allow the students to see what is expected of them. The most important incentive we give out to the students happens four times a year - after each quarter when we reward our gold - silver - bronze diamonds depending on their Behavioral Index and their Academic Results. Not only do they get diamonds to attach to their school shirt but also it guarantees various benefits such as taking on Independent Studies, new roles such as team leader or teaching assistant.
Parent Involvement
There is no question that it "Takes a Village" to raise a child. The most critical role is that of the parents. We have no interest in taking over that role. We hope to be an extension of parent's values and desires. For that to be a reality it is critical that our parents have an opportunity to play a major role in TLE, see our section on expectation under Admission. We ask the parents to a) take a responsibility that the students are in good mental and physical shape for the assignments and tests, b) be part of what goes on by staying up to date by looking at our student information system c) meet us when there is a situation that needs to be discussed whether that is behavior, missed assignment, low grade et al. d) come a visit and eat of our fresh bread in the morning e) spend a few days a year at the school in various roles.
Team Accountability
Finally, we all - parents, student and teachers have to form a team that is accountable to one another for our mutual goals. Team Accountability means that we hold realistic expectations, share a vision, remain willing to learn and trust. Our approach at TLE Christian Academy is that parents and students can share their expectations and commitments for the coming year. The teachers have their commitments to student learning. As a base for these discussions are the assessments and the standardized tests we conduct on all students. These expectations are defined in measurable goals, with dates attached to them. On predetermined dates we meet to together make a 360-degree evaluation of where we are and put together an action plan how to remedy the situation if needed. Unless you can measure the expectations and its progress how do we grow, reach our goals?
