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1. Education is a partnership between the school, the home and the community leading to decisions made in the best interests of students. FFCA encourages regular and open communication among stakeholders and recognizes that an open door policy with administration strengthens relationships and results in enhanced learning for students.
2. FFCA is a learning organization. Performance feedback through subjective and objective measures is used to promote opportunities for continuous learning and improvement. FFCA is committed to developing habits such that stakeholders embrace the concept that learning is a life-long practice.
3. FFCA recruits, selects and develops outstanding staff members committed to the goals and distinctiveness of the organization. Contributions of staff will be identified and appreciated.
4. FFCA expects effective leadership from staff such that opportunities for student learning are enhanced.
5. FFCA values openness. Actions and decisions of the board, administration and staff will be transparent to their constituents and consistent with the vision, mission and Charter of FFCA.
6. FFCA values accountability at all levels. Each person is responsible for his or her own behavior and decisions.
7. FFCA students will achieve academic excellence through teachers’ use of exemplary teaching strategies, establishment of clearly-defined standards of behaviour, and the provision of a conducive and supportive environment. Self-confidence comes from competence.
8. Students will be surrounded with positive thinking and encouragement, which contribute to self-confidence, initiative, independence and optimal learning.
9. Staff exercise professional judgment in responding to the learning needs of students within a defined structure:
- Consistency in program delivery class-to-class and campus-to-campus will be achieved through grade level meetings, subject area coordination and coaching.
- Consistency among the campuses is monitored day to day through administrative supervision.
10. Class sizes within FFCA are targeted to be consistent with the aCOL guidelines and will be no higher than 25. Small variations in actual class size may be implemented in response to meeting the learning needs of students.
11. A common approach to classroom management is used at all grade levels, providing consistent expectations and procedures for students throughout our campuses. Engagement rates are maximized, allowing for high time-on-task and effective time management.
12. FFCA strategically uses direct instruction, a teacher-directed mastery learning technique whereby students acquire knowledge and skills in a systematic way. FFCA also uses sequential mastery learning which requires that students master knowledge in one area before advancing to the next level.
13. Explicit phonics is the primary methodology used for teaching reading and spelling; it equips students with the ability to decode words systematically.
14. Learning extends beyond the school day. Students are required to practice skills at home to develop and maintain mastery. Parents commit to the supervision of homework completion.
15. FFCA seeks to develop good character in its students and to teach the leadership skills necessary to empower them to be a positive influence in society. FFCA’s character pillars include respect, responsibility, self-discipline, compassion and integrity.
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