Atlantis Charter School: Application Requirements

Atlantis Charter School: Application Requirements

If you’re considering a school that combines academic rigor with a supportive community, Atlantis Charter School in Fall River, Massachusetts, should be at the top of your list. Known for its excellence in education, this school offers a challenging curriculum, a focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math), and an environment that nurtures student success both academically and socially. Whether you’re looking for a K-12 school with a personalized learning approach or a community committed to preparing students for college and careers, Atlantis Charter has something to offer.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Atlantis Charter School, from its history and programs to the application process for the 2024 school year.

Background Information on Atlantis Charter School

History of Atlantis Charter School

Founded in 1995, Atlantis Charter School was established by a dedicated group of parents and community leaders in Fall River, Massachusetts, to provide a quality educational option for students. Operating as a public charter school, Atlantis Charter School receives public funding but maintains autonomy over its educational practices, allowing it to offer innovative programs that cater to the needs of its diverse student body.

Initially serving grades K-6, the school expanded its offerings over the years, adding a middle school program in 2000 and a high school program in 2007. Atlantis Charter is now a K-12 institution, serving over 1,800 students. Its mission is to provide an inclusive, challenging, and supportive environment that prepares students for success in college and beyond.

See: Paterson Arts and Science Charter School: Application Requirements

Grades and Programs Offered at Atlantis Charter School

Atlantis Charter provides a well-rounded education across all grade levels:

  • Elementary School (Grades K-5): Focused on foundational academic skills, including reading, writing, mathematics, and science, with an emphasis on hands-on learning and individualized instruction.
  • Middle School (Grades 6-8): A transition period where students delve deeper into core subjects while also exploring electives in arts, music, and technology.
  • High School (Grades 9-12): Atlantis offers a college-preparatory curriculum with a focus on STEAM education. Advanced Placement (AP) courses, internships, and independent research projects help students prepare for higher education and future careers.

In addition to core academics, Atlantis offers extracurricular activities such as sports, music programs, clubs, and community service opportunities, fostering holistic student development.


Unique Features of Atlantis Charter School

Atlantis Charter stands out due to several distinctive features that enrich the educational experience:

  • STEAM Education: A key component of the school’s academic approach, STEAM integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math into interdisciplinary lessons, preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century workforce.
  • Blended Learning: Atlantis uses a blend of in-person and online instruction, allowing students to learn at their own pace while receiving personalized support.
  • Character Education: The school promotes core values such as respect, responsibility, fairness, and compassion, helping students develop strong character and ethical decision-making skills.
  • Dual-Language Program: Students have the opportunity to learn both Spanish and English, making them bilingual and culturally competent, a vital skill in today’s globalized world.
  • Community Engagement: Atlantis Charter School encourages students to participate in community service, internships, and leadership opportunities, helping them build strong relationships and contribute meaningfully to society.

Admission Process

The admissions process at Atlantis Charter is thorough and based on a lottery system due to the school’s limited capacity.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply to Atlantis Charter School, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Residency: Applicants must be residents of Fall River, Somerset, Swansea, or Westport, Massachusetts.
  • Age: Students must meet the age requirements for their grade level. For instance, children applying for kindergarten must be five years old by August 31st.
  • Immunization: Proof of required immunizations is necessary, or a valid exemption must be provided.
  • English Proficiency: Students must demonstrate proficiency in English. Non-native English speakers may need to participate in the school’s English Language Learner (ELL) program.

Admission is based on a lottery system. If there are more applicants than available spaces, a random lottery will determine the students who are accepted. Applicants who are not selected are placed on a waiting list.

See: Woods Charter School: Application Requirement

Application Process

To apply:

  1. Submit an Application: Applications are available on the Atlantis Charter website or at the school office.
  2. Attend an Information Session: Families are encouraged to attend these sessions to learn more about the school’s mission, programs, and culture.
  3. Lottery Participation: The lottery is typically held in March for the following academic year.
  4. Enrollment Forms: Once selected, families will complete the necessary paperwork, including proof of residency and immunization records.
  5. Orientation: New families will attend an orientation session before the school year starts to meet teachers and staff.

Application Deadline

The deadline for applications typically falls in late February to early March. Check the school’s website for the exact dates.


Curriculum and Instruction at Atlantis Charter School

Atlantis Charter School follows the Massachusetts state standards for education while offering a diverse curriculum designed to foster college and career readiness.

Focus on STEAM Education

Atlantis places a special emphasis on STEAM education, recognizing its critical role in preparing students for future careers in a technology-driven world. The STEAM curriculum at Atlantis is hands-on and interdisciplinary, with students engaging in projects that integrate subjects like science, technology, engineering, arts, and math.

  • Science: Students explore concepts like biology, chemistry, and physics, conducting experiments and applying real-world problem-solving strategies.
  • Technology: Students learn digital literacy, coding, and other skills that are increasingly important in the modern job market.
  • Engineering: Students apply design thinking to solve practical challenges, such as building models or designing prototypes.
  • Arts and Math: These subjects are woven into the STEAM framework, helping students use creativity and quantitative reasoning in both art projects and technical design.

Extracurricular Activities

Atlantis Charter School offers a range of extracurricular activities, including:

  • Athletics: Sports like soccer, basketball, volleyball, and track & field.
  • Clubs and Organizations: Debate club, robotics, student council, and drama club.
  • Community Service: Students participate in local initiatives to strengthen their leadership skills and community ties.

Student Life at Atlantis Charter School

Atlantis is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment for all students.

Demographics

Atlantis Charter School serves a diverse population with students of varying racial and ethnic backgrounds, including:

  • 40.6% White
  • 30.9% Hispanic/Latino
  • 16.1% Black/African American
  • 6.8% Asian
  • 5.6% Multiracial

The school is also inclusive of students with disabilities and English Language Learners (ELL), providing tailored support services to meet individual needs.

Student Support Services

Atlantis offers a range of support services to ensure all students succeed:

  • Special Education: Customized support for students with disabilities.
  • Guidance Counseling: Academic and emotional support through counseling services.
  • Health Services: A school nurse is available for medical needs.
  • Title I Services: Additional academic support for students at risk of falling behind.

Conclusion

Atlantis Charter School is a top-tier educational institution that provides a well-rounded education focused on academic excellence, personal development, and community engagement. With a focus on STEAM, a unique blend of traditional and innovative teaching methods, and a culture of inclusivity, Atlantis Charter School prepares students for success in the future.

Key Takeaways:

  • Atlantis Charter School offers a comprehensive K-12 program with a focus on academic excellence and STEAM education.
  • The school fosters a positive and inclusive school culture that values character education and community engagement.
  • Parent involvement plays a critical role in the success of Atlantis Charter School and provides opportunities for families to engage in the school community.
  • The application process includes a lottery system and is designed to ensure fairness for all prospective students.
  • Atlantis Charter School offers a wide array of extracurricular activities that help students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

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