Academics

At North Bend STEM Academy, reading and writing are a top priority. We use the Amplify CKLA (Core Knowledge Language Arts) curriculum, a research-based program that helps students build strong reading, vocabulary, and writing skills. What makes our approach different is that students receive a double dose of English Language Arts every day. Daily extended English instruction helps students:

• Improve reading comprehension and fluency
• Build strong vocabulary and background knowledge
• Strengthen writing and communication skills
• Gain confidence as readers and thinkers

The extra time allows teachers to provide small-group instruction, targeted support, and enrichment, ensuring students not only read but also understand and enjoy what they read. This approach is compelling for students who need additional literacy support or are developing academic language skills.

Our math program uses the Ready Math curriculum, which focuses on deep understanding, problem-solving, and real-world application. Students at North Bend STEM Academy receive math instruction twice daily, giving them the time they need to master concepts truly. With extended math learning time, students:

• Build strong number sense and math confidence
• Practice problem-solving strategies every day
• Learn multiple ways to approach and solve problems
• Receive immediate support when concepts are challenging

This approach helps students move beyond memorization and develop the skills needed for advanced math, STEM learning, and everyday life.

We use the Science Fusion curriculum to bring science learning to life through inquiry, exploration, and hands-on experiences. Students learn by:

• Asking questions
• Conducting investigations
• Making observations
• Connecting science to the world around them

Science Fusion helps students develop curiosity and critical thinking while building a strong foundation in life, physical, and earth sciences.

Students learn about communities, history, geography, and citizenship. We help them make connections between the past and present while developing critical thinking and global awareness.

STEM is at the heart of North Bend STEM Academy. We use Project Lead The Way (PLTW), a nationally recognized STEM curriculum that engages students through hands-on, project-based learning. Through PLTW, students:

• Design and build projects
• Explore engineering and technology concepts
• Learn problem-solving and teamwork
• Develop creativity and persistence

PLTW helps students see themselves as innovators, engineers, and problem solvers — even at a young age. A strong STEM foundation allows students:

• Think critically and logically
• Develop confidence in math and science
• Learn how to solve real-world problems
• Prepare for future careers in high-demand fields

Early exposure to STEM builds curiosity and opens doors to future opportunities. In addition to STEM instruction, students participate in monthly STEM challenges. These challenges are:

• Hands-on and project-based
• Designed to be fun and engaging
• Collaborative and creative
• Connected to real-world problems

STEM challenges encourage students to experiment, think outside the box, and work together — while having fun learning.

Art gives students the chance to express themselves creatively and build confidence through drawing, painting, and other hands-on projects.

Students at North Bend STEM Academy participate in physical education every day. Daily physical activity:

• Supports physical health and wellness
• Improves focus and behavior in the classroom
• Builds teamwork and discipline
• Encourages healthy lifelong habits

We believe healthy bodies support healthy minds.

Students participate in a variety of learning activities each day that individualize instruction for each subject area. Students receive whole class instruction, small group instruction, and individual instruction with teachers, technology and other curricular tools. Each classroom has a Smartboard, classroom iPads, and 1:1 Chromebook access for students.

Our teachers meet the requirements set forth by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA): Bachelor’s degree, grade-level teaching license/certificate & ability to demonstrate subject area expertise. Our teachers are supported by trainers and participate in continuous, research-based professional development. Our teachers are accountable for student learning and rewarded for high-quality performance.

Our students receive double the instruction in ELA and Math to provide a strong foundation for all learning. Beginning with full-day Kindergarten, our school also follows a longer school day and school year than many other schools. In fact, we provide over 10% more instructional hours per school year than the Ohio Department of Education requires.

Student knowledge of academic standards is assessed formally and informally in short cycles by each teacher. Our teachers adjust class-level and individual instruction based on student performance in these frequent intervals.