Our Mission/Philosophy
OUR MISSION
The mission of Gateway Charter School is to provide an extraordinary educational opportunity for children who are struggling to achieve academic success in a traditional school environment, utilizing research-based intervention strategies and a highly tailored, arts-based learning environment that seeks to identify and capitalize on a student’s strengths and interests.
To become a resource to the community as a center for the professional development and education of teachers, parents, and students by providing access to the latest research-based curriculum, technology and training.
FOCUS STATEMENT
Our mission is to maximize each student’s academic ability and social growth through innovative arts-based learning in a safe and nurturing environment. Our vision is to be an innovative school of excellence that prepares students for life.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Gateway Charter School (GCS) is an educational institution that caters to students in grades KN--8. Our unique approach combines arts integration, small class sizes, and social-emotional learning to provide an enriching learning environment. We are currently in the process of expanding our offerings to include grades K, 1, and 2. Our inaugural Kindergarten class was introduced in Fall 2022, and we will complete our expansion with the addition of 2nd grade in the 2024-2025 school year.
GCS was established in the school year (SY) 2012. Our educational philosophy is influenced by the Lab School of Washington®, a renowned private institution based in Washington, D.C., known for its work with students who have learning differences and ADHD.
The Lab School of Washington® was conceived and its curriculum developed by Sally L. Smith, a respected figure in the field of special education. Smith’s innovative Academic Club Method™ has been instrumental in transforming the learning experience for students with learning differences/disabilities and ADHD over the past four decades. This method places a strong emphasis on arts and experiential learning, enabling students to become active learners and achieve academic success.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
At Gateway Charter School, we believe that every child has the potential to succeed academically, regardless of their learning style or previous struggles in traditional school environments.
Our dedicated teachers and staff are committed to fostering a love of learning and a spirit of inquiry in each student. We achieve this by focusing on interventions in reading, oral and written language, math, and motor skills. Our unique curriculum incorporates art, music, drama, and hands-on learning experiences.
In addition to academic development, we place a strong emphasis on social skills and character development. Our Responsive Classroom® curriculum equips students with the skills necessary to build relationships and confidently navigate new situations. At Gateway Charter School, students learn to advocate for themselves by understanding their unique learning styles.
What Gateway Parents Are Saying
My son attended for three years and it was the best decision we could have ever made. He was a part of something and loved the school and the teachers. The entire faculty was invested in each and every student and that came through the doors. Wish they had high school grades because we would never leave! C.A.
James is really loving high school so far. He just made distinguished honors!!! We are so proud of him and I know that all of you are part of the reason he has been successful. He has been advocating for himself, messaging his teachers and learning support coaches for help and really starting to work independently. He monitors his grades himself on HAC. He even joined the drumline! Thanks so much for the academic, social and emotional preparation you gave James. T.H.
Thank goodness for Gateway! I had 3 graduates from there starting with one from their 1st class. He is now employed full time and thinking of furthering his education. The next is still in college and on the Dean's List and inducted into Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Finally, the last to graduate is in 11th grade taking college prep and on 1st honor roll. They would not be where they are today without the education, support and understanding and kindness bestowed upon them at Gateway! M.E.O.