RPSA and RELC provide dozens of program options for our students and families. As part of our plans for continuous improvement, the Academy chooses certain initiatives for in-depth professional learning, monitoring, evaluation, fidelity checks and coaching supports. These initiatives are designed around the academic goals set by the State of Michigan and our charter authorizer, Bay Mills Community College. They align fully with our commitment to meeting the needs of the whole child, as supported by the Michigan Department of Education. During 2021-2023 RPSA/RELC Focus Areas include:
WIN
Our daily schedule is designed so that all RPSA and RELC students receive targeted support during WIN (What I Need) time. Teachers use student academic data to group students based on needs. During WIN time staff may pre teach or reteach a lesson, guide students in practicing literacy or math skills and provide enrichment opportunities for students who are above grade level. The goal is to meet students where they are and ensure they are ready and able to engage in the work for their grade level or, in some cases, beyond their grade level.
See the Michigan Department of Education article Accelerated Learning to learn more about the research behind our WIN model.
Leader in Me/Positive Behavior Incentives and Supports
At RPSA and RELC we strive to develop each child’s leadership qualities. Through a planned program of study, students learn and practice the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
| Habit | Principles |
| #1 Be Proactive | Responsibility, choice, accountability, initiative and resourcefulness |
| #2 Begin with the End in Mind | Vision, commitment and purpose |
| #3 Put First Things First | Prioritization, integrity, discipline, focus |
| #4 Think Win/Win | Mutual benefit, fairness and abundance |
| #5 Seek First to Understand, Then to be Understood | Empathy, respect, mutual understanding and courage |
| #6 Synergize | Creativity, cooperation, diversity and humility |
| #7 Sharpen the Saw | Balance, renewal and continuous improvement |
For additional information, see the 7 Habits At A Glance document on the Leader in Me website.
We take a positive approach to behavior supports rather than a punitive one. Rewards and incentives are a regular part of our school program, so that students are recognized for their leadership efforts and constructive behaviors. Our Academy uses restorative practices for students who need additional behavioral supports within the school community.
Culturally Inclusive ELA Curriculum (Grades K-5)
RPSA has invested in new core curriculum resources to support our diverse learners. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt’s Into Reading program recognizes “engaged readers are inspired writers.” (HMH Into Reading overview) The comprehensive program offers
- An extensive library of trade books that serves as a connection to each module topic, and bridges reading and writing instruction.
- Culturally relevant and ethnically diverse text sets to build cross-disciplinary knowledge and serve as a springboard for writing and discussion.
- Scaffolding in the program to ensure students receive the initial support and practice that sets them on the best path to independence.
- Authentic literature focal texts to kick off every module of writing.
- A Writer’s Notebook that gives students the chance to learn the basics of writing conventions as they analyze writer’s craft, explore various genres, and grow in mastery.
- Anchor charts to spotlight the three key components of any story and provide students with an easily digestible, visual format for organizing their thoughts.
