The OWNCS Learning Experience

At OWN Charter Schools (OWNCS), teaching and learning are grounded in a shared instructional vision across all of our schools. While each campus has its own community and character, all students engage in a consistent learning experience designed to foster curiosity, independence, and whole-child growth.
The OWNCS Learning Experience brings together intentional instructional approaches, rich academic and enrichment opportunities, and a strong commitment to character and leadership development. Together, these elements support students as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Instructional Approach

How Learning Happens
Educator and young girl collaborating on an educational activity in a vibrant classroom setting.

Inquiry-Based Learning
Students engage in learning through meaningful projects that encourage inquiry, problem-solving, collaboration, and real-world application. Through Project-Based Learning, students explore authentic questions, apply knowledge across disciplines, and demonstrate understanding in multiple ways.This approach helps students build critical thinking skills, deepen understanding, and take ownership of their learning.

Personalized Learning
OWNCS classrooms are designed to meet students where they are. Personalized Learning allows educators to adjust instruction, pacing, and supports based on individual strengths, needs, and interests.
By using a variety of instructional strategies and data-informed practices, teachers help ensure that all students are appropriately challenged and supported as learners.

A diverse group of children raising hands while having fun in a lively classroom setting.

Academic & Enrichment Areas

What Students Learn
Educator and young girl collaborating on an educational activity in a vibrant classroom setting.

STEAM
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics are integrated throughout the curriculum to promote analytical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. Students explore concepts through hands-on experiences, inquiry, and interdisciplinary learning that connects STEM skills to real-world contexts.

Arts & Enrichment
Arts and enrichment opportunities provide students with creative outlets and opportunities for self-expression. Through visual arts, performance, and enrichment experiences, students develop creativity, confidence, and an appreciation for diverse forms of expression.


Teacher guiding children using a globe for geography lesson indoors.
Young children enjoying a playful learning activity in a bright classroom setting.

Physical Education & Wellness
Physical Education and Wellness support students’ physical health, social development, and overall well-being. Instruction emphasizes movement, teamwork, healthy habits, and lifelong wellness skills, helping students build positive relationships with physical activity.

Whole-Child Development

Who Students Become
A diverse classroom scene showing a teacher assisting students during a lesson.

Character & Leadership Education
Character and leadership development are embedded throughout the school experience. Students are encouraged to develop responsibility, empathy, perseverance, and leadership skills through daily interactions, school culture, and structured opportunities for reflection and growth.
This focus supports students in becoming thoughtful, engaged members of their school communities and beyond


Together, these elements form a cohesive learning experience that prepares OWNCS students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and approach learning with curiosity and purpose