Why Camelot?

Our Unique Program Offers:

• Small Classes (10:1 student/teacher ratio)
  Camelot's small size and dedicated teaching staff make it possible for students to have a tailor-made educational experience.

• Diagnostic Testing
  Each student's knowledge base and learning style is "diagnosed" in each subject area. Every school year begins with a period of assessment and is closely followed by a staff retreat, during which the needs of each student are discussed and a plan is formulated to meet those needs.

• Individualized Curriculum
  The "prescription" designed by the faculty to meet the needs of a particular student, based on their test results, course of study requirements, classroom evaluation, and parental input.

• Mastery-Based Learning
  This approach enables gifted and talented students to achieve to the highest level of their ability, while ensuring that no student moves on without mastering the key concepts needed for future success. Camelot's founder, Thelma DeCarlo-Glynn, believes the common sense approach of mastery learning (pioneered by Dr. Benjamin Bloom) is the key to unlocking potential in all students. New material is introduced only after students demonstrate mastery of what has already been taught. How does the theory work in practice? Each student is given a "pretest" so the teacher can determine existing skills and knowledge. Instruction begins where demonstrated mastery ends. As the student works through new material, the teacher provides instruction, feedback and guidance. This may occur during one-on-one sessions, in small groups, or with the whole class. At appropriate intervals, determined by the teacher, the student undergoes assessment activities and testing to evaluate mastery of the material. Demonstrated mastery - a score of 80% or better - allows the student to move on to the next unit. Any performance below the mastery level results in the student returning to the material for further study and instruction. While mastery-based learning allows the academically gifted student to move through material at an accelerated pace, and thus remain challenged, it also prevents any student from "falling through the cracks".

• Experienced Faculty ( See Teacher Profiles)
  Camelot Academy has attracted its faculty members from across the country and the world. Several have won recognition in their chosen field, many have taught abroad - all have a passion for what they do.

• Family-Like Atmosphere
  While a student's academic progress is our primary concern, providing a safe, nurturing environment that supports social and emotional growth is part of our mission as well. We seek to develop the whole person.

• Key Role for Parent(s)
  We recognize that parental involvement is critical to the success of the student. We spell out our expectations (such as attendance at two team conferences per year) in our contract with the parents, which is part of the enrollment process.