The 2017-2018 School Year is barely in the books and Flagstaff Academy is already well into
big plans for 2018-2019, with the installation of a new SmartLab, in partnership with Longmont-
based Creative Learning Systems. SmartLab is a high-engagement curriculum and learning lab
where all K-8th grade students will explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math and
Media Arts) through applied technology and project-based learning.
SmartLab Curriculum offers a balanced, well-developed, and hands-on learning curriculum
aligned to Next Generation Science, STEM, Media Arts, Colorado Academic Standards, and
Core Knowledge for Flagstaff Academy students.
SmartLab at Flagstaff Academy will be phased in with installation and development for
elementary grades and will replace the school’s existing technology lab in time for the new
school year in August 2018. To provide a sense of how this exciting learning environment will
work, students enter the lab and connect with their teacher and review the projects, then go off
to their learning pod with their collaborative student partners. They then create their project
based on the SmartLab creative learning sequence fully outlined with supportive and interactive
resources. Students experience authentic and personalized learning with multiple challenge
lessons through balanced topics on the following: Circuitry, Computer Graphics, Digital
Communications, Mechanics and Structures, Robotics and Control Technology, Scientific, Data
and Analysis, Software Engineering, Sustainability, Lift Off Challenges, and Express
Challenges. Teachers can customize the lessons and their presentations to students.
In addition to the lab, the curriculum is available to all teachers and can be used in Science,
Math, Social Studies, and other subjects to enhance lessons throughout the school. Abundant
materials are all aligned to balanced curriculum and teachers will receive comprehensive
training and coaching.
Here is a small film clip that demonstrates the SmartLab:
http://www.creativelearningsystems.com/smartlab.aspx
Flagstaff Academy is committed to preparing students for the 21st Century where STEM will
play a critical role in every aspect of jobs and career, homelife, and advanced learning. Success
for college and career requires that students master next general skills like communication,
collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving, information literacy, and adaptability. Balancing
traditional academics with the need to develop these skills is an important challenge fully
addressed by SmartLab.
Founded in 2005, Flagstaff Academy has built an exceptional educational environment which
values developing the whole child through an award-winning Pre-K to 8th Grade Core
Knowledge academic program. Our curriculum is rich with experiential arts, hands-on science
exploration, character education, and innovative technology integration. Flagstaff Academy’s
mission is to develop students who are equipped to be well-rounded, ethical leaders in the world
community with a foundation based on science and technology.
Flagstaff Academy is currently enrolling for the 2018-2019 school year, with limited openings in
K-3rd grade. Learn more at www.flagstaffacademy.org and contact
enroll@flagstaffacademy.org.
