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academics

Rigorous Academics

It all starts with an academic program that demands excellence. An enthusiastic faculty and staff motivate students to reach their full potential by raising the bar high and sticking to their "no excuses" philosophy.

An Emphasis on Structure - Charter School students are taught to value learning, and that learning is impossible without good behavior. This is why students at the Charter School adhere to a solid school structure that calls for positive attitudes, constant participation, and respect for others. Good behavior should be rewarded in various ways, and the Charter School "Grammy System" allows for well-behaved children to receive such rewards.

Grammy System - Students all begin with a certain number of Grammys. These can be gained or taken away dependant on good or bad behavior, respectively. Students with enough Grammys can trade them in for a variety of rewards. From snacks, supplies, games, and prizes from the Grammy store, to experiences ranging from going to a Grizzlies game to taking a ride in a jet plane, the Grammy system is an incentive program that allows for students to experience life.

Unique Opportunities and Experiences

Extra-curricular experiences are another component of ensuring that students grow into intelligent, responsible citizens. Through the Soulsville Symphony Orchestra program, Business Lunches, Library Development, and Field Trips, students are given every opportunity to establish themselves. These programs are all funded by generous donations from those who understand the importance of enrichment to the life of a child.

Soulsville Symphony Orchestra - All students participate in the Soulsville Symphony Orchestra. 90 minutes per day are worked into the curriculum based on proof that musical education greatly enhances general education.

Business Lunches - It is very important for students to gain a broad understanding of the multitude of professions that exist for them in the world. We invite local professionals to speak to students during lunch about their occupations and what it took for them to get there. Many Charter School students benefit from not only being introduced to jobs they did not know were available but also from the encouragement of people who tell them that they can succeed. Recent speakers include Judith Black from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Actor/Screenwriter/Playwright Ilunga Adell, Graphic Designer Dana Tanamachi, and Soulsville's own CEO, Marc Willis, among others.

Are you interested in speaking at a future business lunch? Contact David Hill, Charter School Leader, at david.hill@thesoulsvillecharterschool.org or (901) 946-2535 ext. 365.

Library Development - Above all, Charter School students are encouraged to read, read, read! Through constant reading, many students rise above and beyond their reading level and develop a life long love for reading. They are encouraged to read all the time: in the lunch line, between classes, and before and after school. Where do the books come from? They are chosen by the students. Through the amazing support of First Book and International Paper, the students are building their own library by being escorted to local bookstores and purchasing the books that they find intriguing. It's about putting trust in the children and, in turn, gaining their trust and respect and, most importantly, developing a passion for reading.

Field Trips - The importance of off-site learning is not neglected at The Soulsville Charter School. From museums to bookstores, campgrounds to gardens, the students at the Charter School are learning that education occurs all around them. Recent trips have taken students to Victory Ranch Camp, the Memphis Botanic Gardens, Bookstar, the Pink Palace, and the Knowledge is Power Program (KIPP) Academy in Helena. Families - Parents and families of Charter School students know that the REVOLUTION can't stop turning when their children leave the classroom. It is a 24/7 initiative that requires constant support at home as well.