Southwest Allen County Schools

SACS’ exploration of Elementary Signature Schools is still in its early stages. While we cannot launch every program at once, we value your input to help us determine where to begin as we consider a long-term commitment to creating pathways and programs that meet the interests and needs of our students and families. Below are brief summaries of the Elementary Signature Programs SACS is exploring for the potential inaugural launch of one or more programs. Some may be easier to implement initially, while others will require additional time, resources, and specialized expertise. We look forward to hearing which programs resonate most with our parents and families as we take these first steps together. Please note that these summaries provide only a general sense of each program’s intent and do not represent final decisions or commitments.

After exploring the different Elementary Signature Programs, we invite you to share your thoughts by completing the Community Input form and let us know which programs excite you most.  

Classical Signature Program

A Classical School Signature Program A Classical School Signature Program is rooted in the rich tradition of Western thought and dedicated to cultivating both intellect and virtue.  In a Classical classroom, the essential building blocks for higher levels of cognitive work are developed by engaging students’ natural desires to explore their world.  Students engage in memorization while reciting historical people and events as well as famous poems and prose. Through instruction and memorization, students master the rules of phonics and grammar, understand foundational math facts, and are familiar with the basic elements of the natural sciences.

Built on the three stages of the liberal arts—grammar, logic, and rhetoric—this sequential model provides students with a strong foundation of knowledge while guiding them to ask thoughtful questions, analyze ideas deeply, and communicate with clarity and purpose. Through this approach, students become self-motivated, lifelong learners who think critically, express themselves effectively, and pursue excellence in all they do.  This program would de-emphasize the use of technology in the classroom.

Dual Language Signature Program

A Dual Language Signature Program offers students the opportunity to learn academic content in two languages—English and a partner language—beginning in elementary school. The goal is for students to become bilingual, biliterate, and culturally competent, preparing them to thrive in an increasingly global world.

In a dual language classroom, students spend portions of their day learning subjects such as math, science, or social studies in the partner language, while other subjects are taught in English. Over time, students develop strong skills in both languages, not just conversationally but academically as well.

This program benefits both native English speakers and native speakers of the partner language, creating a rich, collaborative learning environment where students learn with and from one another. Research shows that dual language programs can enhance cognitive flexibility, improve problem-solving skills, and strengthen overall academic achievement.

At its heart, a Dual Language Signature Program celebrates linguistic and cultural diversity while equipping students with valuable communication skills that will serve them throughout their education and into future careers.

Environmental Nature-based Signature Program

Environmental Nature-based Signature Program may provide a student-centered learning environment that integrates district academic standards with environmental education. Students explore ecosystems including oceans, deserts, and grasslands in great depth as these concepts are woven into reading, math, and writing instruction. Outdoor experiences such as environmental lab studies, field trips, camp days, and overnight camping trips extend learning beyond the classroom walls. Through environmental immersion, critical thinking, and hands-on learning, an Environmental Nature-based program fosters responsibility, innovation, and academic excellence helping every student to reach their highest potential by developing strong problem-solving skills and a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility. This program would de-emphasize the use of technology in the classroom while emphasizing instruction outdoors. 

Fine Arts Signature Program

A Fine Arts Signature Program provides students with a rich, immersive experience in the visual and performing arts, including music, drama, dance, and visual arts. Through this program, students explore creativity, self-expression, and collaboration while developing technical skills and artistic understanding. Lessons are designed to integrate with core academic subjects, encouraging students to make connections between artistic exploration and critical thinking. By participating in performances, exhibitions, and hands-on projects, students gain confidence, build teamwork skills, and develop an appreciation for the arts that can inspire a lifelong passion for creativity.

Leadership and Character Education Signature Program

A Leadership and Character Education Signature Program empowers students to become confident, responsible, and caring leaders. Through daily lessons and engaging service-learning experiences, students develop the skills, habits, and values needed to make a positive difference in their school and community. Rooted in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, the program teaches students to set goals, make thoughtful decisions, work collaboratively, and lead with integrity. By combining character development with hands-on leadership and service opportunities, students learn that true leadership is about influence, empathy, and action, preparing them to lead and thrive in every aspect of life.

Montessori Signature Program

Montessori Signature Programming inspires curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning through a child-centered, hands-on approach. Rooted in Montessori philosophy, the program allows students to learn at their own pace in a collaborative environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and critical thinking. Guided by Montessori-certified teachers, students follow individualized learning plans tailored to their strengths and interests while developing strong academic foundations, self-discipline, leadership, and responsibility. Skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

In Montessori classrooms, students have the freedom to explore, work at their own pace, make mistakes, and learn through self-correction. Specialized materials introduce concepts in concrete ways, helping children build deep understanding before moving to more abstract thinking. Through purposeful work and real-world projects that connect core academics to authentic experiences, students apply knowledge across language, math, science, and practical life skills strengthening critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and creativity.

By blending structured academic goals with student-driven inquiry, the Montessori Signature Program cultivates confident, compassionate learners who take ownership of their learning and are prepared to contribute thoughtfully to their communities and embrace lifelong success.

STEM Signature Program

A STEM Signature Program provides students with a hands-on, inquiry-based approach to learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through experiments, projects, and collaborative problem-solving, students develop critical thinking, creativity, and analytical skills while exploring real-world challenges. The program emphasizes integration across subjects, allowing students to see connections between math, science, technology, and engineering concepts. By fostering curiosity, innovation, and a love of learning, a STEM program equips students with the skills and mindset to thrive as future leaders, creators, and problem solvers in a technology, ever evolving world.