There are many aspects of the program at ISAAC that make it a unique and innovative education.

Expeditionary Learning is a proven model for comprehensive school reform for elementary, middle and high schools. It emphasizes learning by doing, with a particular focus on character growth, teamwork, reflection and literacy. Teachers connect high quality academic learning to adventure, service and character development through a variety of student experiences including interdisciplinary, project based learning expeditions.

• Learning Expeditions
  • Implementing learning expeditions across the school
  • Designing compelling topics and guiding questions
  • Designing products and linked projects
  • Incorporating fieldwork, local expertise and service learning
  • Producing and presenting high quality student work
• Active Pedagogy
  • Using effective instructional practices schoolwide
  • Teaching reading K-12 across the disciplines
  • Teaching writing K-12 across the disciplines
  • Teaching inquiry-based math
  • Teaching inquiry-based science and social studies
  • Learning in and through the arts
  • Using effective assessment practices
• Culture and Character
  • Building school culture and fostering character
  • Ensuring equity and high expectations
  • Fostering a safe, respectful, and orderly community
  • Promoting adventure and fitness
  • Developing a professional community
  • Engaging families in the life of the school
• Leadership and School Improvement
  • Providing leadership in curriculum, instruction and school culture
  • Sharing leadership and building partnerships
  • Using multiple sources of data to improve student achievement
  • Linking Expeditionary Learning and school improvement plans
• Structures
  • Designing time for student and adult learning
  • Creating structures for knowing students well