Southwest Allen County Schools

SACS’ exploration of 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 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 Signature Programs, we invite you to share your thoughts by completing the survey and let us know which programs excite you and your child the most.

 

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.

 

 

Classical Signature Program

A Classical School Signature Program is built on a time-tested approach to learning that emphasizes critical thinking, clear communication, and strong character development. Rooted in the traditions of classical education, it emphasizes the study of grammar, logic, and rhetoric, supported by Latin and Greek foundations. Subjects are taught through a structured, sequential model that builds a deep base of knowledge across the humanities, sciences, mathematics, and the arts. Students engage with the great works of literature, history, and philosophy, learning to ask thoughtful questions, analyze ideas deeply, and express themselves with clarity and purpose. A key feature of the classical approach is the “Trivium,” which aligns teaching methods with how children naturally learn.

 

 

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.

 

International Baccalaureate Signature Program

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme Signature Program provides students with a globally recognized framework that emphasizes inquiry-based learning, international mindedness, and cross-cultural awareness. Through this program, students engage in hands-on, collaborative learning experiences that encourage curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The curriculum integrates multiple subject areas, allowing students to explore concepts in context while making meaningful connections to the world around them. By fostering respect for diverse perspectives and encouraging students to take an active role in their own learning, the IB Primary Years Programme cultivates confident, compassionate, and globally aware learners ready to thrive in an interconnected world.

 

 

Leadership and Character Education Signature Program

A Leadership and Character Education Signature Program helps students develop the skills, habits, and values needed to become confident, responsible, and caring leaders. Through student leadership opportunities, lessons on habits of success, and service-learning projects, students learn to set goals, make thoughtful decisions, and collaborate effectively with others. This program emphasizes ethical decision-making, personal responsibility, and community engagement, giving students hands-on experiences that foster empathy, resilience, and a strong sense of civic duty. By combining practical leadership experiences with character development, students are empowered to grow as both learners and contributors to their school and community.

 

Montessori & Project Based Signature Programs

A Montessori Education Signature Program offers a child-centered, hands-on approach to learning, where students actively explore concepts using Montessori materials and follow individualized learning plans tailored to their unique strengths and interests. Guided by Montessori-certified teachers, students develop independence, self-discipline, and a love of learning while progressing at their own pace. The classroom environment encourages curiosity, problem-solving, and collaboration, allowing each child to engage deeply with subjects across language, math, science, and practical life skills. By emphasizing exploration, choice, and personalized instruction, the Montessori program fosters confident, self-motivated learners prepared for lifelong growth and success.

A Project-Based Learning (PBL) Signature Program engages students in interdisciplinary, real-world projects that connect core academic instruction to meaningful, hands-on experiences. Like Montessori, the program encourages students to pursue their interests and curiosity, fostering a natural desire to explore and learn deeply. Through collaborative projects, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and creativity while applying knowledge across subjects such as math, science, language arts, and social studies. By blending structured academic goals with student-driven exploration, the PBL approach nurtures independent, motivated learners who are equipped to tackle real-world challenges and contribute thoughtfully to their communities.

 

New Tech Signature Program

A New Tech School Signature Program prepares students with both academic and technical skills by aligning the curriculum with career pathways in fields such as science, technology, engineering, business, entrepreneurship, digital innovation, coding, and emerging technologies. Students engage in project-based, real-world learning that emphasizes collaboration, problem-solving, and creative thinking while exploring topics that connect to future career opportunities. Through hands-on experiences and integrated lessons, students develop a strong foundation in STEM and business concepts, digital literacy, and technical skills, equipping them to navigate and succeed in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.

 

Robotics Signature Program

A Robotics Signature Program introduces students to the exciting world of engineering, coding, and technology through hands-on, project-based learning. Students design, build, and program robots, developing skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. The program integrates concepts from science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) while providing opportunities for students to experiment, iterate, and innovate. By engaging with real-world challenges and applying their learning in tangible ways, students develop both technical proficiency and confidence, laying the foundation for future success in STEM fields and beyond.

 

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 needed to succeed in future STEM-related studies and careers.