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Traditional School

Older and younger student read together
Three students do science project
Students play instruments in orchestra class
 

Ward Traditional Academy is proud to be Tempe Elementary School District's traditional learning option for K-8 students.

Goal of Traditional Instruction:
Ward Traditional Academy uses a direct instructional model for all grades. This approach emphasizes carefully planned lessons designed around small learning increments and clearly defined tasks.

  • The teacher is an instructional leader. The curriculum specifies the goals, lessons and tasks, and the teacher presents these to her students. 
  • The teacher closely supervises and coaches students. Teachers work hands-on during lessons and when students are working alone or in small groups. The goal is for all students to master every concept, with no exceptions.
  • Lessons are fast-paced. The developers of direct instruction learned early on that a quick pace is essential for proper learning to occur. 
  • The absolute outcome of instruction on any lesson must be mastery. Every student in the group must be able to perform the skill independently and without mistakes – firm and fluent.

A Day in the Life of Ward Traditional Students

Developing the Leaders of Tomorrow
The K-8 Experience
What Parents Say

When my kids come to Ward, I feel that I can trust the environment. They're going to receive a very stellar education, but also, the 'whole [child]' is going to be taken care of. The opportunity to get that from a school is monumental. It puts my heart at ease.

FAYE FARMER, WARD PARENT
Headshot of Faye Farmer