Open-Source Curriculum

by Elizabeth Thomasian

ACEL has an open-source curriculum, which is unusual among public schools. Open-source curriculum is teaching through practices other than traditional textbook materials. ACEL has a variety of ways to teach their students that are tailored to individual learning needs of students. Open-source curriculum helps students achieve the Academy’s student outcome goals through an educational program that integrates civic and entrepreneurial projects with rigorous academic expectations.

Teachers, who are each fully credentialed, are able to teach more freely at ACEL than at a standard public school. Usually, public school teachers have to teach to a strict, standard-based curriculum that ultimately prepares the student only for standardized testing. ACEL focuses on preparing the student for college entrance or workplace careers, while still teaching and preparing students for statewide mandated tests including STAR and CAHSEE.

ACEL promotes students based on performance of their mastery of essential knowledge aligned with California state standards, as well as essential leadership and life skills. Students also complete University of California “A to G” requirements that are tracked through a personalized learning plan. This plan helps each student meet the required course work while attending to the student’s strengths and interests.

Technology advancement is embraced at ACEL. Students are able to have hands on time with Apple computers as well as other technology-based tools. ACEL hosts many professionals within the community that help students learn and apply needed computer skills. Without open-source curriculum, valuable tools such as these would be non-existent because of the limitations of traditional teaching standards.

ACEL students also participate in community events, as well as view and visit local businesses and offices. This allows for students to see and participate in a variety of things within their community. ACEL feels that community outreach is vital for student’s growth of personal character and overall academic success in school.

Students will have performance portfolios of their work from the ACEL program. Performance-based assessment prepares students for post-secondary education and job opportunities in an increasingly competitive global market because it resembles real-world contexts much more than traditional tests that customary public schools give.