General Info
Sonoran Science Academy (SSA) is a tuition-free charter school in Phoenix, Arizona. SSA is a public charter school focusing on math, science & technology and college preparation while also covering a full, well-rounded curriculum that provides solid liberal arts foundation for their students.

In 2000, local scientists, educators and community leaders saw a need in Arizona for a school that focuses on math, science and computer science.  The corporation members are comprised of dedicated scientists, educators, and community members who share the same vision of education; that the knowledge and the wisdom of students will blossom in an independent and self-structured learning environment. In 2000 the Arizona State Board of Education approved the Charter School Application of Sonoran Science Academy and in August 2001, SSA was opened in Tucson to provide excellent education for all students. Outstanding achievements at SSA within years lead the founders to open the second site in Phoenix area. And in August 2004, SSA Phoenix was opened to serve K-12 grades. Currently, SSA Phoenix is open for K-9 grades and is now accepting enrollments for K-10 grades for the school year 2008-2009.  

Mission
The mission of Sonoran Science Academy (SSA) is college preparation for students to achieve success in the high-tech community of the new millennium through a science and math instructional program that includes high educational standards, a liberal arts foundation and meets individual student needs to compete successfully in a global technological society upon graduation.  

SSA's Distintions
How to Differentiate the Sonoran Science Academy from its Competition?

Unique curriculum
The Sonoran Science Academy (SSA)--Phoenix offers a math, science, and computer-technology focus within a liberal arts-based K-12th grade curriculum. Responsibility, respect, and cooperation form the basis of classroom discipline. Character education is embedded throughout the curricula. In addition to its math and science focus, the school emphasizes mastery in U.S. History and Social Studies, Language Arts, the Visual and Performing Arts, and Physical Education. Instructional strategies encourage concept development, visual thinking, problem solving, communication, higher-level thinking, and cultural diversity.

Community involvement
Known for strong parent and community involvement, the SSA--Phoenix is a vibrant and highly effective school offering rigorous curricula balanced with a nurturing climate. SSA provides students with a variety of learning experiences to meet their individual needs, including cross-age student learning, after-school programs, academic and recreational clubs and teams, and tutoring and mentoring opportunities.

A strong commitment to parents and community supporters, the SSA--Phoenix strongly encourages families and community representatives to contribute their time and energy to the school as they see fit. Parents, staff, teachers, and students work closely together on all aspects of the SSA’s programming, providing classroom assistance to teachers, tutoring students, assisting with fundraising efforts and school events, etc.

Campus Atmosphere
The SSA--Phoenix offers a vibrant and highly effective campus environment which encourages all students and faculty to develop and achieve at their greatest potential. Respect and appreciation of the multi-ethnic diversity of the school’s urban setting is fundamental to the SSA. Students, staff, and parents have joined together in creating an academic setting defined by excellence, mutual respect, diversity and achievement – a place where dreams and learning are bridged.

Summary of SSA Programs and Offerings

• International, award-winning, and gifted faculty, mentors and tutors with expertise in their respective fields
• Math and science programs that exceed state standards
• Computers in classrooms and labs, Internet access, and a networked facility.
• Learning assistance programs for basic skills (in all grade levels).
• Psychological counseling.
• Parent enrichment programs.
• Student intervention teams to support those experiencing academic challenges.
• After-school programs: math, science, chess, drama, music, and computer technology.
• Resource and multi-purpose rooms.
• Math and science enrichment programs for all grade levels.
• State-of-the-art facility with excellent location in close proximity to outstanding Phoenix amenities.
• A positive learning environment with high expectations for all students.
• A commitment to excellence in education.
• An active, well-run, collaborative Board of Directors and Parent Association.
• Positive discipline strategies.
• Academic celebrations integrated with curricula: Math, Computer Olympiad, Aerospace Challenge, FIRST Lego, Spelling Bees, Robotics, etc.

What Makes the SSA a Special School?
One of the cornerstones of the SSA’s program is providing a high level of intellectual challenge and academic achievement. Supporting its mission statement, the school focuses on the following:

• Directly addressing the personal, social, and emotional growth of its students, including skills of conflict resolution, social and personal responsibility, values, and self-esteem;
• Providing students, parents, and faculty with important and regular opportunities for decision making about the school;
• Striving for an overall school environment that is engaging, active, positive, and supportive;
• Seeking balance between structure and nurtured independence;
• Regular K-10th grade cross-age groups working on projects that integrate the various disciplines within the curriculum in an experiential manner;
• Supporting and encouraging innovation and risk-taking;
• Maintaining and embracing a diverse population; and
• Being a K-10th grade, central-city school, open to the public, without tuition, to all Greater Phoenix families.  

Tutoring
Sonoran Science Academy is offering free tutoring for all students who need assistance with their class homework and/or subjects.

Tutoring is avaible Monday through Friday from 3:15 PM to 4:00 PM and also on Saturdays between 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM

Students get one of one help durig tutoring. It is essential part of SSA's cirriculum