Why we strive for

extraordinary with every essay

At Alma, our scholars achieve at high levels on traditional measures like state tests. In addition, our definition of high

achievement includes our scholars producing stunning work.

Alma third graders are on expedition to

Colonial America.

They are learning about the various careers people

had in the 1600s.

Saige was tasked with researching the life

and work of a carpenter.

She gleaned the best facts about colonial carpentry from texts and other sources,

preparing to write a five-part essay.

As Saige drafts her essay, she asks her classmate Taylor to look it over and give her feedback.

Taylor suggests she re-write a sentence about the tools carpenters use that he finds confusing.

Both the author and the reader benefit from this process of peer critique. For Taylor, the process of determining the

best next step for Saige builds high level analysis skill through practice.

Saige isn’t done yet.

Alma scholars go through a full editing process for

their writing (and artwork!) several times a year.

This is a vital part of teaching our scholars

how to write essays, and how to work in the real world.

Saige’s teacher edits her draft next. She checks for grammar, spelling mistakes and unclear thoughts.

Saige then produces a final draft which she reads to her tablemate, Janiah, before handing it in.

Alma’s mission is to prepare our scholars to be on the path to college.

Scholars begin by choosing a topic and end with a high-quality finished essay that appears in their classroom’s Colonial-era newspaper.

This process allows our scholars to develop skills they will use here, in college, and in the workplace.

For our scholars, it’s a process that means every piece of work is extraordinary.

Because why settle for anything less?

Learn more at almadelmar.org and eleducation.org