What are the sights and sounds of the end of July at Classical Charter Schools? We see the bright blue, butcher block paper posted on bulletin boards with a corrugated white trim ready for a teacher’s gorgeous “welcome back” display. We hear the soft hum of floors being buffed and waxed. Desks, chairs, and classroom libraries are gently put back in place, ready to be decorated. It is time for Classical Charter Schools to kick off the year.
Reflect, Align, and Set the Vision
Before scholars can enter the building, the adults of Classical Charter Schools begin the year with deep reflection. With nearly 200 staff members across the network, the year kicks off with each individual reflecting on what drives their passion and purpose.
This is more than a writing exercise. Staff share these reflections in small teams, fostering connection and alignment before diving into professional development. By hearing each other’s goals and motivations, teams build trust and common purpose. From these conversations, teams identify themes and use them to craft both team and school-wide goals for the year. These goals don’t sit on the shelf—they guide decision-making, shape priorities, and help fuel their team-based vision statements.
In addition to this exercise, Classical staff get to hear from the various departments that are working hard to make sure they have everything they need. Whether it is the data and research team talking about innovations with Classical’s systems or the scholar services team reminding staff that they are available as thought partners, we want all staff to know that we are all working together to support our scholars’ futures.
This kickoff approach reminds everyone that strong outcomes start with clarity of purpose. By investing early in reflection and alignment, Classical ensures that staff begin the year grounded in shared values, committed to growth, and ready to translate personal intention into collective action.
Teacher-Led Growth in Action
Professional development at Classical Charter Schools isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s tailored, targeted, and teacher-driven. Our staff are able to sign up for sessions that align with the areas they want to improve or deepen. The offerings are broad but focused, including tracks such as classroom management and culture-building, high-leverage instructional techniques, data analysis, and equity-focused practices in the classroom.
This approach empowers teachers to take ownership of their development. Whether a first-year teacher is looking to build consistent routines or a returning teacher wants to sharpen their use of minute-by-minute plans to increase engagement, PD is designed to meet people where they are. Additionally, teachers exploring how to bring culturally responsive practices into rigorous classrooms have spaces to reflect and learn in community.
Coaches, Deans, and team leaders facilitate sessions and build in application time so that staff have time to work on how they would incorporate the session ideas into lesson plans, classroom environments, and team visions. The focus is always on real classroom impact—how does this training show up in front of, and for our, scholars?
By making professional development responsive and goal-oriented, Classical ensures that every staff member has the opportunity to grow in meaningful, measurable ways.
Building Classrooms, Systems, and Community
As the new year approaches, we shift from learning at our SBC IV location to our school sites and into logistics mode; a smooth first week doesn’t happen by accident. Teachers receive their class rosters and begin preparing their spaces, personalizing visuals to reflect the scholars they’ll welcome on Day One. It’s more than decoration—it’s about signaling belonging, pride, and readiness to learn.
Meanwhile, leadership teams work closely with staff to share safety protocols, mapping out arrival and dismissal plans as well as lunch and recess. These routines are essential for ensuring a well-choreographed school day. Well-run schools are built on systems that allow teaching and learning to happen without distraction.
In addition to these operational tasks, each school comes together to align on a shared vision. Staff meet their leadership teams, learn more about the roles and responsibilities across the building, and collaborate on school-specific mission and vision statements.
This phase of preparation grounds Classical staff in clarity and collaboration. With strong systems, clear expectations, and a shared purpose, Classical Charter Schools are ready to start strong and stay strong all year long.
