“As a model K-12 school, we are committed to an integrated academic curriculum emphasizing science and mathematics, which prepares all students and future educators to contribute to and succeed in a technologically oriented and global society.” Strategic Initiatives Develop a set of guiding principles for a model K-12 educational program that crosses traditional barriers in teaching/learning through a challenging curriculum in an environment that encourages innovation, engagement and interaction. Create and implement a development plan that enables the creation and ongoing support of a model K-12 school. Determine the number and characteristics of the students the school will serve, including abilities, interests and educational objectives, and develop a strategy to recruit and admit those students. Develop and implement mechanisms and strategies for enhancing student and faculty knowledge and experiences so that they contribute to and succeed in a global society. Construct a seamless integration of curriculum (K-12 post) using benchmarks that will foster scientific and mathematical innovation through technology. Create a plan to recruit, retain, and develop highly qualified instructors (faculty) who reflect our philosophy and prepare students to achieve our school's mission. Guiding Principles In order to enhance mathematics and science education, University School encourages and supports sound educational practices.  In accordance with the National Science Education Standards and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics’ Curriculum and Educational Standards and Professional Standards, University School believes that: science and mathematics should be taught in context with other academic areas and real world experiences and not in isolation. excellence in mathematics and science education requires equity—high expectations and strong support for all students. inquiry and hands-on, minds-on mathematics and science education is a natural vehicle for the development of students’ reasoning and problem solving skills. a curriculum is more important than a collection of activities; it must be coherent, focused on important mathematics and science, and well articulated across the grades. students should learn mathematics and science with understanding, activity building new knowledge from experience and prior knowledge. the use of appropriate technology and teacher pedagogy must be promoted to allow students to take an active role in the learning process;  it influences the mathematics and science that are taught and enhances students’ learning. solutions for the future will require, more than ever before, groups of people working together to solve problems. it is imperative for students and teachers to become life-long learners as well as active contributors to an increasingly scientific and technological world. effective mathematics and science teaching requires understanding what students know and need to learn and then challenging and supporting them to lean it well. assessment should support the learning of important mathematics and science and furnish useful information to both teachers and students.