Construction is now complete.
Teachers and staff began the big move into a brand new building in July, to prepare for their first year at Aristotle Academy. The new charter school at 704 S. and 600 East in American Fork is scheduled to open its doors for classes Aug. 21.
The charter is one of Utah’s eight new charter schools. It will serve 540 students in K-8 grades.
Aristotle Academy
Jeanne Whitmore, founder and CEO of the school, said she decided to start the charter three years ago when her son was struggling with reading and math.“I was searching for options and decided that there needed to be more options for parents, especially low income parents, that would accommodate their students’ needs for remediation and enrichment, and the parents’ work schedules,” Whitmore said.
While the school will specifically target low-income students, Whitmore hopes that all parents with children who are struggling in school feel that they have another option available to them, regardless of income level.
The charter will use research based academic programs not currently available in Alpine School District: Direct Instruction in Reading and Math and the Hillsdale Curriculum Guide. According to Whitmore, other states are using these programs with great success.
Chairs for Aristotle Academy classrooms
Additionally, students attending the school will have physical education through Velocity Sports, a recreation club that will be moving into a 30,000 square-foot facility located next door. During the school year, seventh and eighth graders will get access to Velocity’s premium sports fitness classes free of charge.
The charter will run a PE program throughout the summer, starting next year to keep kids healthy and fit during break.
Another unique feature at the school is a child care program operated by the Boys and Girls Club from 7 a.m. 6 p.m. Whitmore says the school’s families will also receive after-school support.
“We have a robust schedule of afterschool programs and we will have summer remediation and enrichment as well,” Whitmore said. “I think we have done a great job of pulling together a well-rounded program with support from the community.”
For more information on Aristotle Academy visit http://aristotleacademyk8.org/
I have been told that this school will not be getting playground equipment for the children. I understand that education is very important but they’re still children.