Curriculum
Guidepost students engage in a rigorous curriculum designed for maximum student engagement, interest and inspiration.
History
At Guidepost Academy, history is the backbone of
everything students learn. Students dive deep into the rise and fall of civilizations, the progression of impactful intellectual movements, and the major turning points that defined an era. In addition to core units on world and Canadian history, students create detailed timelines and portfolio work.
Guidepost students learn history as a practical, tangible, living tapestry—one that illuminates the present day.
Students do learn historical dates, names, and facts: and they use this data to deepen their understanding of the fundamental ideas, inventions, people, and movements that shaped the modern world.
Literature and Writing
In middle school, students begin to read as scholars, analyzing both the literary techniques and the historical, social, and philosophic concepts of a book. We introduce great books as a way of exploring new lives and new perspectives, and to understand moral decision-making and character.
Students' becomes more sophisticated, with opportunities not only to hone their skills and perfect their writing using editorial feedback, but also to use their knowledge to analyze the writing of others. The ability to speak and write clearly unlocks the world: it makes every goal more possible; every dream more achievable. We strive to give that freedom to students through a thoughtful emphasis on writing and communication skills.
Math
The Montessori math curriculum allows students to learn more, learn earlier, and learn more deeply. Above all, it empowers students to understand math concepts in a way that is connected with their everyday life. Students learn math in a way that is grounded and intuitive. Math is supported by small group instruction and consistent realworld application of skills. The curriculum provides customized rigor for each student, while retaining an emphasis on skill mastery, confidence, and mathematical fluency. For those students who are ready, reaching ahead to Grade 9 math in Grade 8 is an available option.
Science
Learning scientific facts, formulating new hypotheses, and solving thorny problems all form a key part of Guidepost’s science curriculum.
Guidepost’s focus is expanded to also emphasize the
historical process of discovery—from the initial eureka to the innovator’s successive attempts to harness and refine their understanding.
This emphasis on the history of progress builds a student’s sense of awe for great innovators, while also inspiring them to see what is possible for them to achieve.
Art
Formal study of art and artistic techniques builds observational skills, develops an appreciation for
beauty and order, and exposes students to the full range of human expression.
Guidepost students are able to join a elective drawing course that introduces the idea of art as a practice, with emphasis on observation, realism, critiques and skill development.
Students can also elect to join the Guidepost band, which creates live performances of popular music using acoustic, bass, drums, keyboards and vocals.
Micro-Economy and Job Shadowing
Students participate in school-run businesses: from local lawncare and landscaping, to creating crafts to sell at local farmer’s markets. These collaborative enterprises let students gain real-world skills, from time management to budgeting to sales—all while working in a team that depends upon them. In Grade 8, students begin to identify areas of particular interest and may choose to participate in career chats with professionals and job shadowing programs. Guidepost interns have worked in local veterinary hospitals, cafes, barbershops and more.
