Our Philosophy

Ledyard Charter School believes that all kids can learn and be successful in the right environment with academics to meet their needs. The mission of LCS is to work with students who are seeking an alternative to the typical public high school experience. We guide our students to forge a new path for their lives; a path for success and a new hope for the future.

We value engagement, connection, self-advocacy, respect for self and others, and resilience. We view grades as guides for further growth and development; a gauge rather than a judgment.

We help our students become independent individuals capable of contributing to their community and society at large. We strive to support students as they navigate the workforce, relationships, successes and even failures. With failure comes learning and without the occasional hiccup no true growth is possible. We all make mistakes and at LCS we turn mistakes into opportunities for learning and change.

LCS provides an academic program to optimize intellectual growth and enable students to become independent, responsible, and employable citizens.

Small, Safe Learning Environment

LCS maintains small classes sizes to ensure a safe and effective learning environment with a focus on core academics, high-interest electives, social-emotional learning and workforce development skills that are transferable to any after-high school plans. We are committed to providing a curriculum that addresses individual learning styles and promotes a school culture of mutual respect and collaboration.

State & Grade Level Standards

LCS curriculum provides a comprehensive approach to support achievement while offering a clear and consistent framework to prepare students for employment careers and college, tech school, and other post-secondary education options. LCS students take courses at a pace that is appropriate to their level of academic functioning whether gifted or falling behind.

Personalized Learning Plans

The LCS Academic Coordinator works one-on-one with students to develop a personalized learning plan dedicated to determining an overall path to graduation, goals for the current year, and recognizing skills and challenges as a learner. Post-secondary transition plans are generated and, if necessary, an extra academic help schedule is developed.

LCS is involved with families and communities

Family & Community Support

The faculty and staff at LCS understand the value and importance of family and community support. We recognize the importance of pursuing a wide range of partnerships that allow for the additional resources necessary to improve and challenge student achievement and provide for the whole child. Consequently, we view parents and community members as partners in creating a school culture that promotes academic success and fosters personal growth. To support our local community we have a school-wide goal to perform 800 hours of community service annually.

Project Based Learning

Whenever possible we prefer to use the project based learning (PBL) method to prepare students for college, the workplace, and life as successful and happy adults. Studies show that PBL is linked to significant improvements in student test scores, attendance and classroom engagement. This method also provides teachers with the opportunity to build stronger relationships with their students by acting as their hands-on learning facilitator. In essence, PBL is an instructional method where students collaborate with others and “learn by doing.” The same skills learned through PBL are also many of the skills sought by employers. Learn more.