Academics
At Columbus Arts & Technology Academy, we provide a standards-based curriculum that teaches students skills for college and career readiness. We are accredited by Cognia™ for meeting the highest standards of education in ongoing third-party review. Our curriculum is built on the Ohio Learning Standards (OLS) for English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Visual Arts, and Physical Education. Students in grades 7-12 have the opportunity to participate in College Credit Plus—a dual enrollment program where students can earn college and high school credit at the same time. Columbus Arts & Technology Academy students are instructed in eight subject areas: English Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Art, Music, Physical Education, and Spanish.
Core Subjects
These core subjects form the basis of our K–12 curriculum. Students receive 120 minutes of instruction in English Language Arts and 90 minutes of instruction in mathematics, science, and social studies each school day. Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is also a key part of our core curriculum. Learn more: Social Emotional Learning Overview (PDF) »
English Language Arts
We help students develop vital communication skills, while inspiring a love of literature. Younger children learn phonics and grammar and prepare for reading through multi-sensory activities, while older students learn to comprehend and analyze both fiction and non-fiction. The program emphasizes classic works and writing as a process.
Math
We balance fundamental skills with critical thinking and problem solving. Our active approach ensures that students understand the realities that underlie mathematical concepts. Games and animations bring concepts to life, while challenge problems, regular practice, and review ensure mastery. We build from the concrete to the abstract as students move from basic skills toward algebra.
Science
Our Science program uses hands-on experiments to support the systematic study of life, Earth, and the physical sciences. We nurture curiosity as students practice observation and analytical skills. Students learn how our understanding of the world is shaped by ongoing scientific and technological advances.
Art
Lessons in Art Appreciation to develop understanding in form, style, and structure. Art projects allow students to explore their individual creativity and expression.
Music
Our music program builds musical skills through singing, instrument playing, movement, critical listening, and creativity. Music appreciation enriches students through discovery and sonic exploration.
Physical Education
Organized physical education gets children exercising regularly. We teach students important concepts of teamwork and sportsmanship, as well as promoting general health and well-being.
Spanish
The benefits of early exposure to a second language have been well-documented. Learning a second language can create greater overall linguistic awareness for stronger skills in the child’s native language, can improve memory and listening skills, and can even help with multi-tasking and focus.
Spanish is required for students in grades 8-12. There are no additional fees to take a Spanish course.
Instructional Model
Our school is built on a strong foundation of high expectations for academic achievement for all students. Our instructional model has four key components to achieve strong academic results:
Individualized Instruction
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.
Properly Certified & Licensed Teachers
Our teachers meet the educator qualification requirements outlined in 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. Meet our teachers >>
More Time on Task
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.
Short Cycle Assessments
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.
Recent News
Child Find
Columbus Arts & Technology Academy serves a diverse population of students and we work to support the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs of all students.
Ashley Nicholson
Special Education Coordinator
anicholson@accelschools.com
(614) 577-0900
Social Studies
With integrated topics in geography, civics, economics, and history, our Social Studies program opens young minds and imaginations to far-off lands, distant times, and diverse cultures. We explore the history and geography of North America and beyond.