PROGRAM OFFERINGS
Dream. Challenge. Succeed.
FOUR FOCAL POINTS
Agriculture, Environmental, STEM, and the Arts
The four cornerstones represent the focus areas to allow students the opportunity to explore fields of study. The students will use these focus areas to guide project creation in one of the areas each quarter. The arts will be infused throughout the year with our music program, featuring our string instrument program and partnership with the Aber Suzuki Center UWSP.
MULTI-AGE SETTING
Encouraging Diverse Learners
The multi-age setting enables our community to see all of our students as diverse learners. This structure naturally allows differentiation and flexibility with a focus on ability level, rather than grade level. Students will engage with students of all ages in our multiage study room and project workroom to encourage multiple perspectives and collaboration across the grades.
COMMUNITY CULTURE
Place-Based Learning
An emphasis on community involvement from volunteers to field experts enhance the projects for the students creating authentic, relevant learning experiences, shaping the community of tomorrow. The school sits on 25.5 acres of land with access to Silver Lake, trails, a community garden, and fruit orchard.
GRADUATION COMPETENCIES (21ST CENTURY SKILLS)
Preparing our Students for the Future
Students at Chain Exploration Center develop and foster "soft skills" through the project process. Each year students in the CEC have learning targets for each category of 21st Century Skills. Each student graduates 8th grade proficient in all competencies, preparing them to be successful in high school and college.
PROJECT-BASED LEARNING
Student-Led and Standards-Based
Students at Chain Exploration Center engage in standards-based, student-led projects. Student-led projects harness the power of engagement, offering a method for students to take control of their learning through personal interest and choice. Advisors monitor and guide the project selection process to ensure all national standards are met. Several community partnerships provide authentic opportunities within the project structure for our students.
PROJECT LEAD THE WAY (PLTW)
S.T.E.M. Curriculum
Project Lead the Way Launch is a K-5 program designed to introduce the STEM field with a hands-on approach. Launch includes 28 modules that students will explore over their K-5 career.
Project Lead the Way Gateway, grades 6-8, focuses on
computer science, engineering, and biomedical science. Students can explore these fields with an engaging curriculum.
ABER SUZUKI CENTER PARTNERSHIP
String Orchestra
We partner with the Aber Suzuki Center at the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point to offer students in grades 4th - 6th string lessons for free. Students choose between Cello, Violin, Viola, and Bass for a minimum of three years with the option of continuing after this time.
The Suzuki Method offers a unique teaching method that mimics language acquisition and operates with the guiding belief that "all children can" and that musical talent is not innate, but learned.
"INTO MATH"
Math Curriculum
Into Math uses an approach focused on a growth mindset for students and real feedback from teachers to drive growth for every learner.
Ed Online, the online component of the program, provides assessment and data analytics on student performance that identifies students' needs, groupings of students who have similar needs/strengths for small group or individual work, and assignment recommendations. In this way, learning is personalized to student needs.
Students working in other grade level standards also use Kahn Academy, Happy Numbers, and Xtra Math as supplemental online programs.
SPECIALS & ELECTIVES
Noteworthy Curriculum
CEC students participate in Makerspace, Art, Lifestyle Fitness, and Foreign Language through Duolingo. CEC students enrolled in grades 4K-4 participate in general Music. Students currently enrolled in grades 4K-3 attend Lifestyle Fitness, General Music, and Art.
Beginning in grades 5-8, students are give the option to choose between four electives: Choir, Culinary Chemistry, Outdoor Exploration, Performing Arts Kids (PAK), and Knitting. These are semester long classes to ensure opportunity for all.
