Choice. Our Minnesota public schools have earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence. Even so, our large school districts are just not designed to provide unique curriculum choices for individual students. We are all about choice in every other aspect of our culture—just look at the choice we have in grocery stores, theatres, vehicles, housing, and on and on. Why would we not also want choice in our education system?
Innovation. There is much to be said for the innovative aspect—even a requirement of innovation—in a charter school. Standards-based education can sometimes stifle creativity and opportunities to explore what works best for students. Charter schools, however, provide a playground for innovation, while still remaining accountable to the same standards.
Richness. The children of today are the leaders of tomorrow. Our children need a challenging education that is as rich and diverse as the demands they will face in the years to come as global citizens. Charter schools, with their diversity of curriculum choices, provide increased richness and appropriate challenges for students. ISLA is proud to provide a K-6 education that gives children a foundation of critical thinking and an international perspective that will serve them well as they grow.