Defining our SchoolThe School of Choice is a private, interfaith, Independent Study Academy for gifted or challenged students in grades six through twelve. In the daytime, afterschool or in summer school, we offer individually-tailored curricula for tutoring and classes designed to meet college standards.We are a non-denominational school which is open to qualified students of all racial, social, cultural, religious and intellectual backgrounds. We teach regular classes between 8: 30 and 3: 00 on Mondays through Fridays, except holidays, between August and June. We also sponsor educational enrichment programs in the summer and after school. We give students a classical education, which challenges them to read great books and ideas in each of the arts and sciences. Our intellectual freedom and rigor encourage students to think critically and imaginatively as they develop character and leadership abilities; they will become mature adults who can solve the world's problems.We consider it arbitrary to divide students strictly by age, and not by ability. Therefore, our tracking system and honors programs ensure that students and teachers stay at high levels. We mix grades when necessary to keep our keenest students intrigued by the process of learning at the highest level. Our curricula prepares students to take all classes required by the University of California as well as Advanced Placement courses starting in the ninth grade. Our students will practice SAT and SAT II tests in middle school and will take diagnostic IOWA or ERB tests upon admission and at regular intervals to demonstrate their improving competence on standardized testing challenges. Naturally, students will receive regular grade reports on a quarterly basis. Their service upholds four principles: