TEACH Academy will follow Montana elementary school accreditation standards with at least one classroom in Early Literacy and grades 1-2 in the first year;  providing there is enough interest, an additional 3-4 grade combination classroom may be added.  It is anticipated that we will have 70-100 students in year one.

TEACH Academy will incorporate Montana Content standards in all major subject areas including reading, writing, math, science and social studies.  Students will also have access to music and health and PE specialists as well as regular access to the Missoula Public Library through regular book-mobile visits.

Yes.  We will follow all MCPS hiring processes and contractual agreements for hiring certified teachers and highly qualified paraprofessionals.  Once enrollment is closed, we will begin advertising the positions for the Academy.  TEACH Academy will also have a Head of School - a highly qualified school administrator to serve as the building leader.

TEACH Academy will closely align to the regular elementary school calendar and daily schedule.  It is likely that the school day will be 8:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m., but this will be finalized in May-June as we work to build the transportation plan.  

We will follow all Montana Content standards and will utilize curriculum resources similar to other MCPS elementary schools.  The school day schedule will include English Language Arts, math, science and social studies, along with character education and access to school specialists such as music and art. 

TEACH Academy is a public school and will continue to provide all specialized services to students based on need and IEP goals.  All students are welcome!

Absolutely!  TEACH Academy will be supported by the MCPS Food Services program, and we will provide breakfast and lunch daily.  Meals will be priced the same as all MCPS schools.  We will also continue to partner with the Missoula Food Bank to provide Empower Packs to families as requested.

MCPS is currently working with our community partners to identify fee-based after school options for TEACH Academy students.  Please check back on our website to stay up-to-date on these options. 

TEACH Academy will actively engage high school Career and Technical Education (CTE) students interested in pursuing careers in education by providing internship programs that offer hand-on experience in elementary classrooms.  Additionally, through partnerships with local educational institutions, TEACH Academy will offer dual credit opportunities, allowing students to earn both high school and college credits while gaining practical teaching skills and insights within a supportive learning environment.

All high school students will be under the direct supervision of TEACH Academy staff at all times and will not be left alone to supervise elementary students. 

Interns from university programs will be required to complete background checks per MCPS policy. 

TEACH Academy will establish a caregiver and community partner advisory board comprised of diverse stakeholders, including parents, local business, and community organizations, to ensure alignment with community needs and foster collaborative decision-making.  Scheduled to convene starting in August 2024, the board will provide invaluable input and guidance, enabling TEACH Academy to tailor its programs and initiatives to effectively serve the needs of both students and the broader community.