At CATA, personalized learning means working with each student in a holistic manner to address social, emotional, behavioral, and academic development. Our approach is to meet students where they are, help them to develop their personal goals, assist them in identifying the skills and resources they need, and support them in achieving both short and long-term objectives. Personalized learning also means helping students identify the personal strengths that they can bring to the community and encouraging them to participate fully in student life.

Students take ownership of both their own education and the culture of the school by helping to choose new electives, writing the student handbook, and developing and monitoring the school culture. If problems arise, staff attempt to determine from the student why the problem occurred and what support the student needs. This encourages reflection and provides support so the behavior can be improved. This approach is based on mutual respect and humanity, a desire to help students to understand who they are and what they need, attempt to prepare them to be confident and articulate, and to help them internalize values and self control.

Study after study has shown that people work best in environments where they feel respected, valued, and understood. Cocheco Academy is a place where everyone - students, parents, and faculty - work together to create a place where meaningful learning happens, and where each member of the community is honored. Our greatest strength lies in our support and respect for the diversity of experience each of us brings to the table, and our best learning happens when all our voices join in the conversation.

CATA does not discriminate on the basis of ancestry, color, creed, disability, national origin, race, religion, gender, or sexual orientation.