Naples Classical Academy

Singapore Math at NCA, by Mrs. Spurgeon, M.Ed., Math Coach How does Singapore Math benefit scholars at NCA? Singapore Math is a curriculum where a variety of mathematics are used to help students build competence and confidence in math. The framework of Singapore Math is a Concrete - Pictorial - Abstract method of teaching and learning Math. The Singapore Math method is different from other math curriculums, and probably different from the way many of you were taught math. You may have wondered why our scholars are being taught math operations with manipulatives, number bonds, word problems, and bar models. The answer: Singapore Math is developing an understanding of math in scholars that is not just the “how” of Math, but also the “why.” Our scholars are not taught to “do math” using memorized procedures. At Naples Classical Academy, we strive for all of our scholars to become critical thinkers of math, and not rely on rote memorization or math “tricks” to get answers. Scholars in grades K-3 (Concrete Stage) are learning to become fluent in Math procedures. The concrete stage requires younger scholars to master basic math skills of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. The concrete stage is critical for skill development in future grades, as it is the foundation of the curriculum. Parents can expect at this concrete stage for their children to use manipulatives, and number-bonding techniques in math. The progression of the Singapore Math curriculum moves scholars out of the concrete phase to the Pictorial Stage beginning in grades 3-6. During this next stage scholars are still required to have a mastery of basic mathematical operations, however at this point the curriculum introduces a pictorial approach to math. The pictorial stage is a bridge from concrete thinking to abstract reasoning in math. The pictorial stage of Singapore Math separates this curriculum from other math curriculums and teaching methods. When there is a solid understanding of the pictorial stage of Singapore Math, students excel in upper school mathematics. Parents can expect at this stage that their children will use bar models, distributive property, and solve complex word problems. (See below for an example of a 5th grade word problem / bar model solution). Finally, scholars will transition to the Abstract Stage of Singapore Math with an in-depth exploration of metacognition and processing skills to truly master mathematical concepts such as Algebra, Geometry, Physics, and Calculus. I will conclude with this, as the Math Coach at Naples Classical Academy, I am extremely proud to say that our teachers are dedicated to the fidelity of the Singapore Math curriculum and all of the upper school math disciplines. I feel very fortunate to have such an amazing team of Math teachers at Naples Classical Academy, who are skilled and passionate about not just educating the minds of children, but their hearts as well.

The Power of Gratitude, Michele Rutter (NCA Third Grade Teacher & Team Lead) As we approach this season of reflection, I wanted to take a moment to talk about the power of gratitude. In a world that often moves at a fast pace, it’s easy to overlook the simple blessings that surround us. Yet, practicing gratitude - taking the time to be thankful - has the power to transform how we see our lives and the world around us.  Being thankful doesn’t just mean expressing appreciation for the big moments or accomplishments; it's about recognizing and celebrating the small, everyday things that bring us joy, comfort, or growth. When we express gratitude, we shift our focus from what is lacking to what is already present. Having this mindset helps us become more aware of the goodness around us. Gratitude enhances our well-being, fostering a sense of contentment and peace. It reminds us that even on tough days, there is always something to be thankful for. For teachers, being thankful for students is a profound practice. Every day, students bring their unique energy, curiosity, and challenges to the classroom. Gratitude is not just about expressing thanks for the big moments, but also for the everyday acts of kindness and encouragement that shape our school culture. It’s in the smile of a student who’s excited to share what they have learned. When we take the time to acknowledge and appreciate their hard work, growth and potential, we not only uplift them but also enrich our own sense of purpose. In the end, being thankful is about choosing to see the beauty in the world, even when it’s hidden beneath the surface. It’s about being present, being aware, and being willing to express appreciation for the gifts we receive each day. Gratitude doesn’t just change our perspective - it can change our lives.

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Grammar and Composition at NCA Classical education is largely based on the Trivium, which dates back to ancient Greece and defines the first three foundational learning stages of the liberal arts as grammar, logic, and rhetoric. In modern day liberal arts, the grammar stage of the Trivium is also commonly referred to as English Language Arts which includes reading and writing as vital prefatory skills that scholars learn and practice during this stage of the trivium. At Naples Classical Academy, scholars in grades kindergarten through fifth learn the "code" of the English language via the Literacy Essentials program. Scholars learn the 42 phonemes (sounds) and the 72 spelling patterns (graphemes), which are represented by the 26 letters of the alphabet. For all elementary grades, spelling words are deliberately and precisely taught using phonograms and spelling rules. There is no whole or sight word instruction, rather, scholars become masters of the English language as they are taught how words are structured and apply their knowledge of the code and spelling rules to read and write more complex words. Writing instruction begins with explicit instruction in handwriting strokes and evolves into word and sentence writing, paragraph writing, and then multiple-paragraph essays. Basic grammar concepts and sentence writing are integrated into the Literacy Essentials program to prepare scholars for the Well-Ordered Language grammar and the IEW writing programs. Formal grammar and composition instruction is introduced in 3rd grade and continues into middle school. The upper elementary grades continue to utilize their knowledge gained by studying Literacy Essentials to acquire more vocabulary with a greater emphasis on words with Latin and Greek roots. By the time our elementary schoolers reach middle school, they will be able to apply their knowledge of the mechanics of language through composition and grammar study. They will enter the logic stage of the trivium with the ability to recognize and develop sound arguments that are rooted in truth, then articulate and arrange their thoughts using the knowledge and skills obtained through their learning experiences during the grammar stage. Sister Miriam Joseph Rauh, C.S.C., PhD, had this to say in her book titled The Trivium “teach one how to live; they train the faculties and bring them to perfection; they enable a person to rise above his material environment to live an intellectual, a rational, and therefore a free life in gaining truth.” At Naples Classical Academy, scholars at all stages of the trivium are striving toward being well-rounded individuals with a secure moral compass possessing the necessary skills to communicate their thoughts of truth, goodness, and beauty to all whom they encounter in life. Sherry D'Agostino, NCA Dean of Curriculum and Instruction & Literacy Coach

Naples Classical Academy is seeking permission to amend its campus site development plan to add a gymnasium on the western end of its existing school building at 10270 Immokalee Road. The future expansion was planned when the charter school was built in 2021. In an unrelated application regarding a vacant outparcel lot in front of the school, Creative World School at Naples Classical Academy has requested a site development plan amendment for a proposed daycare center. The 10,258-square-foot daycare with 22 employees is proposed to serve 200 children, Collier County records show. Know more now about other projects planned on Immokalee Road by reading the latest Tim Aten Knows column - https://lnkd.in/e9fdJiKZ

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