About Thoreau Demonstration Academy

Principal - Mrs. Audrey Doctor

Assistant Principal - Mr. Diamond

Counselor - Ms. Rachel Adams

Counselor - Ms. Asia Hongo

Rachel Adams is counselor for seventh grade and half of sixth grade. She will work with students in the Byrd/Rodebush team and with students who have Marlow for the morning block.
Asia Hongo is counselor for eighth grade and half of sixth grade. She will work with students in the Walker/Weddington team and with students who have Childers for the morning block.

The curriculum at Thoreau Demonstration Academy is implemented through the use of Integrated Thematic Instruction (ITI), a "brain-compatible" teaching model developed by Susan Kovalik http://www.thecenter4learning.com
It is based upon the development and orchestration of one unifying yearlong concept and all its ramifications through which all content and skills are woven. The theme acts as a pattern for organizing ideas, materials, and actions for both teacher and student. There are three basic tenants to the ITI method: brain research, curriculum development, and teaching strategies.
Learning with understanding can not be achieved unless the Lifelong Guidelines are modeled and practiced on a daily basis. These guidelines, which include trustworthiness, truthfulness, active listening, no put-downs, and personal best, permeate the atmosphere at Thoreau. Each teacher strictly adheres to their importance in every aspect of the daily teaching process.
We know that it is important to build a solid foundation and become confident in our research and practices. We invite you to join us in this process that will help our students realize their full potential into becoming critical thinkers who are responsible, creative adults. This model for educating our children will enhance their lives and enable them to lead the way in the future.
The TRIBES program at Thoreau was implemented to create a positive, safe climate in which the students can learn appropriate life skills and the basics of group interaction. See more at http://www.tribes.com
It consists of daily twenty-minute Tribes activities, which are based on the agreements of: mutual respect, attentive listening showing appreciation, no put-downs, and the right to pass. Students are scheduled into multi-age groups consisting of thirteen members and one adult Tribes leader. Students begin each day be participating in a Community Circle where they can freely discuss matters of personal concern and relevance as well as school related issues. This environment allows a close affinity to peers with whom they might not otherwise know. Tribes also includes time for S.U.R.F. (Silent Uninterrupted Reading For Fun) and intramural competition between other Tribal groups.
Tribes has become one of the most successful components of Thoreau. Tribal agreements permeate every aspect of the school day. Students work in cooperative groups and are better able to handle and appreciate the demands of positive group interaction because they have learned to express themselves and their ideas.
This program has effectively bonded a myriad of personalities from every part of our city. It has, without a doubt, provided our students a tool for growth and personal development.