In the early 2000s, a group of visionary educators and community leaders in Madera, California came together to establish Sherman Thomas Charter School TK-8. The school officially opened its doors in 2003, with a commitment to providing a high-quality education that went beyond the traditional classroom model. From the outset, Sherman Thomas Charter School TK-8 embraced innovative teaching methods, personalized learning plans, and a focus on holistic student development.
Over the next decade, the school garnered attention for its dedication to academic excellence and its unique approach to education. The teaching staff, administration, and parents collaborated to create a nurturing environment that encouraged curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for learning. The commitment to student success was evident in the tailored educational experiences, which accommodated diverse learning styles and abilities.
In 2014, Sherman Thomas Charter School TK-8 achieved a significant milestone by being recognized as a California Distinguished School. This prestigious designation was a testament to the school’s outstanding educational practices, student achievements, and its positive impact on the community. The honor solidified Sherman Thomas Charter School TK-8 as a leader in innovative and effective education within the state.
Building on the success of the TK-8 program, Sherman Thomas Charter High School opened its doors in 2009. The high school was designed to meet the evolving needs of students in grades 9-12, offering a unique independent study hybrid model. This approach combined traditional classroom instruction with independent study options, providing students with flexibility and personalized learning experiences.
In the ensuing years, Sherman Thomas Charter High School earned a reputation for its commitment to preparing students for the challenges of higher education and the workforce. The curriculum was designed to empower students to take ownership of their learning, fostering independence and critical thinking skills. The high school became known for its supportive faculty, who worked closely with students to ensure they reached their academic and personal goals.
In 2017, Sherman Thomas Charter Schools took another bold step forward with the establishment of the Sherman Thomas STEM Academy. Catering to students in grades 6th-8th, this academy focused on providing a specialized curriculum in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The goal was to ignite a passion for these critical fields, preparing students for the growing demands of the STEM-centric job market.
The addition of the STEM Academy further enhanced Sherman Thomas Charter Schools’ reputation for innovation and responsiveness to emerging educational trends. The schools continued to evolve, adapting to the changing landscape of education while maintaining their core values of academic excellence, student empowerment, and community engagement.
As Sherman Thomas Charter Schools entered this new chapter, they remained dedicated to their mission of providing a transformative educational experience for students across Madera, California. The legacy of excellence established by the TK-8 program and the high school laid a solid foundation for the continued success and impact of the Sherman Thomas Charter Schools well into the future.
Free and Public Education Choice for Madera
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Many careers involve work in these specific fields, and students today are facing a competitive job market where problem solvers have the upper hand.
At Sherman Thomas STEM Academy, we integrate a problem solving mindset in all areas of study. An inquiry approach to learning puts students in control of their own critical thinking development. Collaboration with peers encourages communication and project management skills. Learning habits of professionalism enhances the presentation of student work. All of these are talents highly sought after in today’s work force.
Sherman Thomas STEM Academy sets students up for success throughout and beyond high school. We recognize that technological advances are driving our community, touching all of our lives at home and in the workplace. Students entering high school today learn far beyond “the basics” and find that literacy is not limited to ABC’s and 123’s. Becoming “literate” in today’s world means not only reading about it, but connecting what you read to other subjects and circumstances.
The function of education is to teach one to think critically. Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.
Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.
Opening students’ eyes to career opportunities is at the heart of Sherman Thomas STEM Academy. While learning about the world around them, students begin to explore their interests and direct their futures.
Our program schedule is unique in that we operate a slightly longer day (8:00 am–3:30 pm) Monday through Thursday, and then have a half day (8:00 am–12:00 pm) on Friday. This half-day is dedicated to exploring careers and “getting our hands dirty” with projects in the following ways: Inviting Madera businesses into our school to share about their industry, including educational requirements to enter their field
To learn how you, as a parent, can be involved, go to our Parent Involvement page.
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