A Creative Education For Creative Children

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• What is a Charter School? A charter school is a public school managed by a non-profit Board of Directors. All charter schools are designed to allow more flexibility than standard public schools, although we are held accountable for academic achievement and prudent management by the School Board and the State Department of Education. For a more detailed answer to that question, click this link - http://www.floridaschoolchoice.org/charter.html
• Who are you? Pinellas Preparatory Academy is a Pinellas County’s charter school. It is designed around creativity-based teaching theories and methods, and focuses on developing each student’s individual talents.
• What are these theories and methods? We are basing our curriculum primarily on the work of Drs. William Glasser and E. Paul Torrance. Both believe that research proves that all children have multiple talents or intelligences, in addition to the usual “IQ,” and that allowing students to develop these talents results in both a better adjusted student and much higher academic achievement. Additional details on the work of these men can be obtained on the internet or by contacting us.
• How large are your classes? Not more than 22 students per class.
• What does it cost? Nothing. As a public school, there is no tuition.
• What are the opportunities for parent involvement? Parents are strongly encouraged to participate in all aspects of Pinellas Prep life. Classroom volunteers, administrative helpers, special projects, field trip transportation and chaperoning, special event preparation and assistance (i.e., drama and music events) fund-raising, ongoing communication with the entire school community through the Internet Bulletin Board, participation on the Board of Directors and it committees, and membership/participation in the Parent Teacher Enrichment Group are just a few ways parents are involved. In addition, parents are urged to visit ad sit in on classes at any time.
• Can I see the school and meet the people involved? YES. We operate an open school, and do not have special visiting times. Just give us a call to set up an appointment at (727) 536-3600l Unannounced visitors are also welcome. Prospective students may “shadow” a student in the equivalent grade to experience the school first-hand.
• What about school discipline and even violence in the school? Since our students are self-selected for their love of learning and high potential to be future leaders, we have far fewer disciplinary actions than in many other schools. In addition to standard Pinellas County School Board requirements, we have our own enhanced code of conduct.
• Will you have athletics? We have physical education classes, but we do not have interscholastic team activity. Students may participate in these activities within another Pinellas County School.
• Is there a dress code? We follow the rules of the Pinellas County Public School system. We do not require uniforms, but students are able to purchase school T-shirts and wear them on Fridays (and other days). Students are expected to dress in good taste, with clothing that is clean and practical. On special occasions, costumes are permitted.
• What if I can’t decide? Please call us and set up a meeting to learn more about us.
• What are the school hours? Regular school hours are from 8:00 AM to 2:45 PM. Before and after-care programs are available. Clubs meet before and after school.
• Why do you start with the fourth grade? Research and experience shows that students first begin to respond to negative pressures, both from peers and elsewhere, in the fourth grade, and if not dealt with can result in growing problems as the child matures, especially during adolescence. We believe that a positive educational environment and well-trained, motivated teachers and staff can supplant such negative pressure.
• What about computers? Students are taught computer skills through one of our three laptop centers. These centers are able to moved between classrooms and provide wireless access to the internet. Teachers teach the students a variety of computer skills.

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