About

Our mission is to strengthen DCS (and the public school system) by exciting students about learning through exposure to advanced concepts and techniques currently being used at leading universities and technology companies. We strive to nurture responsible, caring members of society, by challenging students to appreciate how to harness the power of science and technology for the greater good, and to consider their role in how technology is created and used. We believe the best learning and problem solving occurs when students get to be creative and playful. So all of our classes include a high degree of fun, hands-on activity, together with advanced topics and content. Each of our 3 tracks: Manufacturing Science, Biologic/Health Sciences and Computer Science & Networking integrates ethics and social responsibility as core competencies within the curriculum. We believe these elements to be essential for engaging students today and preparing them for the challenges of tomorrow.

We’ve introduced something unique at the middle school level by combining two successful approaches.  First, by introducing the concept of play in our curriculum, we are modeling after the very successful Finnish primary school model.  Studies show that important neural connections are made when the developing mind is allowed to play in an unstructured manner.  This is why in Finland there is 15 min of recess for every 45 min of lecture.  Our lessons are centered around play and exploration without losing importance of the traditional lecture.  Second, with respect to the traditional lecture, our approach is to have class 2X per week as one would in university, which is different from any other after school program.  We believe that having the class 2X per week allows us to delve deeper into our topics and allows for greater mastery of the subject matter.  Having the classes meet 2X per week and having a sequence of classes that build on each other, but that at the same time are distinct and modular, is part of our mini university concept.

Our classes are taught by extremely bright and focused graduate students from local universities such as Stanford University and Santa Clara University, as well as experienced industry professionals, and outstanding credentialed teachers in a collaborative effort, bringing excellence and richness to the educational experience for our students. 

If you are looking to prepare your child for his or her future with challenging and inspiring teachers, in areas of study (BioSciences, Computer Science, and Manufacturing Science) that are moving too rapidly for traditional education systems and programs, then look no further. AcademeVitae, it’s not your average after school program!