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In the late 1990s, the parents of a special needs student in Tucson, Arizona were dissatisfied with traditional schooling. Fortunately, they had extensive educational expertise. They founded Mountain Rose Academy, a charter high school featuring an individualized, self-paced, computerized program for each student. On day one, they set up a card table in front of the school. Each student got a desktop computer and also participated in small-group instruction. They were expecting 40 students, but more than 100 students seeking an alternative to traditional education enrolled.

Since that time, the Rose Academy has expanded into four schools that serve 1,200 students. From the start, our teachers were pioneers in blended learning, combining computer-based instruction with individual and small- group instruction. One of our challenges was to find a rigorous electronic curriculum with an appealing look and feel that offered a variety of course options and met state standards. Originally, Rose spent time and energy developing its own computerized curriculum; however, the use of our time was best served in helping teachers implement a blended instructional model. So, in 2013, we began to look for software that would match our system of education. After thorough evaluation, we selected OdysseyWare. Our students find the new curriculum appealing, yet challenging.

Implementing Odysseyware curriculum has allowed us to focus our time and energy on instruction rather than developing curriculum. Our instructional approach focuses on teaching students how to learn and how to perform. Teachers emphasize teaching strategies so that our students can meet academic demands. Our teachers are coaches. We educate students “how to fish” so that they can become independent lifelong learners.

We, as well as our students, are well prepared to incorporate any future innovation because our system demonstrates a step beyond competence.

Kelly Hurtado is superintendent at Rose Academies, public charter high schools that have been serving the Tucson community for more than 15 years.