The School of Technology and Arts II (SOTA II) enhances the district’s 6th, 7th and 8thgrade curriculum by uniquely blending daily lessons with hands-on creative experiences in Science, Technology, and the Arts. Studies link the active learning of an art form to increased student motivation and the ability to learn other skills like reading, mathematics, and writing. Research has also linked parti
cipation in the arts to such positive outcomes as increased student participation in community service and appreciation of cultural differences. Similar research indicates that a wide range of computer technologies support the development of advanced thinking, analyzing, and synthesizing skills. SOTA II uses technology and the arts as tools for integrating learning of core subjects into thematic units. This method of curriculum delivery takes into account individual student interest and skills and allows students a different way to show their learning. SOTA II extends the learning experience of the SOTA I program to emphasize the importance of social and emotional learning, community building, and teamwork. Recipient of the Schools of Recognition Award: 2010-11
Teacher: Kelly Schirm; [email protected]
Teacher: Nine Dodge; [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions-
1. SOTA II's biggest difference is that we do all our learning through thematic units that are threaded throughout all subject areas. We also have the students explore the content by project based learning tasks. Students are graded based on state standards and performance rubrics.
2. How are the arts integrated into other subjects? SOTA II has an additional intensive hour to study the arts (music, movement, theater, visual art, language, film). Not only do they work on their skills in these areas, but the students go deeper into quarter themes from their content areas. Students are often asked to express their learning through their art, such as play music, singing, acting or dancing. All students will participate and learn through these types of experiences.
3. How will SOTA II students transition into regular instruction? SOTA II is a 6th and 7th grade charter school. Students who attend SOTA II both years will then attend Lincoln Middle School for 8th grade. Lincoln Middle school has one 8th grade team that runs their grade much like a traditional junior high. This traditional year in Middle school will help the students transition better into high school and it also allows SOTA II teachers to be in the same building to offer support to both students and faculty.
4. Do you need to go to SOTA I to go to SOTA II? No, any student going into 6th or 7th grade is eligible to go to SOTA II.
5. Sign up! Linked on this page is the Charter/Choice application that you must fill out and hand into our school office. We suggest that you meet with either teacher or attend a back to school or open house to better understand the learning and experiences your student will be participating in at SOTA II.
6. How do you communicate to parents about all the technology used in the classroom? Every month we have a newsletter that goes out to our families to show what we are doing. We also host a community night every month to teach parents about new programs we are using in the classroom. SOTA II also has a Wiki page that acts like an online textbook to what students are learning in the classroom. Parents access this to see pictures, videos or projects the students are participating in.
7. Can my student spend the day in SOTA II to try it out? Yes, Call the office to set up a day and time today!
