The Mission of Horizons Exploratory Academy
We believe alternative education is an educational option that honors individualized paths to success through a personalized, rigorous curriculum designed around the needs, aspirations and creativity of every student.
How We Get There
Not everyone fits into a traditional school, as individual needs can vary greatly among students. Horizons Exploratory Academy (HEA), Salida’s Alternative High School for students grades 9-12, aims to help kids who might benefit from a different educational option. At HEA, all students develop an individualized learning plan catering to their personal goals and aspirations. For a student in credit recovery, this might include remedial classes or doubling up on credits. For a high achieving student, this might mean jumping into independent study projects that include real world experience or college classes. Each student is given an advisor who works with them throughout their entire time at HEA. The advisor supports each student, collaboratively sets up a clear plan for graduation, and ensures parents/guardians are continually updated on the student’s progress.
HEA has a diversified academic curriculum that ensures students are graduation-ready. Because college is not for everyone, HEA supports each student in achieving their post-graduation dreams - be it college, trade school, or jumping into the workforce. At HEA, we believe it is our job to ensure that our graduation requirements encourage students to explore a life full of opportunity and choices. During their time at HEA, students participate in real-life experiences that include but are not limited to: job shadowing, internships, personal finance study, arts exploration, and outdoor activities such as hiking, snowshoeing and skiing that push their personal limits.
Is HEA easier than SHS? No. This is a common misconception, as individualized learning plans allow for flexible schedules, and students may not have a traditional school hours from 8-4. In this type of learning environment, students must be self-directed and motivated to be successful. Students at HEA must still follow all state guidelines, including ICAP and the 28 credit district requirement. Additionally, HEA graduation requirements incorporate service projects, community presentations, leadership and social/emotional growth guidelines.
At HEA, all are welcomed; we are a small, familial community, so it’s important that we work together and problem-solve as needed along the way. HEA is beginning to implement restorative justice practices where students hold each other accountable and participate in mediated conversations when conflicts arise. We are excited to see how our students respond to these practices - we anticipate that students will appreciate the leadership they are being given to find solutions.
Every student is unique, and one education style doesn’t always fit all. Horizons Exploratory Academy offers a unique approach to learning that is available for interested high students. If you would like to learn more, give us a call at 719.530.5489 or spend a bit of time exploring our website.
Infinite Campus
Infinite Campus is a district-wide student information system (SIS) designed to manage attendance, grades, schedules and other information about our students. Parents/guardians have access to the IC Parent Portal which is a confidential and secure website that allows parents/guardians to view their child's progress in school.
Click here to access the Infinite Campus Portal
Click here to learn more about setting up your Infinite Campus login and password.
Clever
Clever Clever is a secure platform that makes it possible for every student and teacher to instantly access the world of digital learning with a single sign on.
Gifted and Talented
The Colorado Department of Education's Office of Gifted Education guides the Salida School District's Gifted and Talented services. The vision is to ensure that all gifted students will receive rigorous, culturally inclusive, evidenced-based academic and affective educational opportunities to develop their exceptionalities, leading to fulfilling and productive lives. Learn more about what is available to students who have been identified as being gifted.
Special Education
Services are provided in accordance with state and federal law (IDEA) governing the education of children with disabilities. Before any child is eligible to receive services, concerns about the child's educational progress must first be reviewed at a team conference, and a referral must be made for an evaluation. In Salida, the referral process is made as a team and is made as the result of a larger process called MTSS (multi tiered systems of support). Learn more here.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Learn more about services provide for students and families who are learning English as a second language.