What Is a Traditional Charter School? A Guide for North Phoenix Families

What Is a Traditional Charter School? A Guide for North Phoenix Families.

If you are researching schools in North Phoenix, you have probably come across the term "traditional charter school." It is a phrase that gets used often and explained rarely. This guide breaks down what it actually means, how it works, and what families can expect at Adams Traditional Academy.

Is a charter school a public school?

Yes. A charter school is part of the public education system. That means it is tuition-free and open to all students, on the same basis as any other public school. Adams Traditional Academy is a tuition-free, public K-8 charter school in North Phoenix, accredited by Cognia.

Because charter schools are public, they do not charge tuition and do not require an entrance exam. They are funded through the state, the same way district schools are.

What does "traditional" mean in a traditional charter school?

"Traditional" refers to the instructional model, not the building or the calendar. At Adams Traditional Academy, it means a back-to-basics approach built around a few clear principles:

• Teacher-led, whole-class instruction. Lessons are taught by the teacher to the whole class, which supports structure, consistency, and high expectations.

• A textbook-driven, sequential curriculum. Students move through content in a deliberate order so that each year builds on the last.

• Minimal classroom screen time. Learning is centered on direct instruction, reading, and writing rather than on devices.

  
  

This is different from models that rely heavily on technology or self-paced digital programs. The goal is a steady, content-rich foundation in the core subjects.

What curriculum does a traditional charter school use?

At Adams Traditional Academy, the curriculum is built on established, research-backed programs:

• Core Knowledge for a sequential, content-rich scope across subjects

• Spalding for integrated language arts, including phonics, spelling, and handwriting

• Singapore Math for a structured, mastery-based approach to mathematics

• Excellence in Writing to build strong written communication

• Latin to strengthen vocabulary and language skills

The emphasis throughout is on reading, writing, mathematics, science, and history, taught in a way designed to exceed Arizona state standards.

How big are the classes?

Class sizes at Adams Traditional Academy average about 25 students in grades 1 through 8 and about 20 in kindergarten. Many classes also have an aide present alongside the teacher, which brings the effective teacher-to-student ratio down to roughly thirteen to one.

Does a traditional charter school run year-round?

Not at Adams Traditional Academy. The school operates on a standard schedule and aligns its calendar closely with the Deer Valley School District. That alignment helps families who have other children attending nearby district schools keep a single, predictable schedule.

Who can attend?

Adams Traditional Academy is open to all students. As a public charter school, it complies with all state and federal public school laws and does not discriminate based on race, creed, color, national origin, or disability. Families are encouraged to learn about the program before enrolling so they know what to expect.

How families can learn more

The best way to understand a traditional charter school is to see one. Adams Traditional Academy offers campus tours that typically last 30 to 45 minutes, with separate options for kindergarten and for grades 1 through 8. Families can also reach the office directly at info@atachoice.org or 602-938-5517.

Schedule a Tour

Adams Traditional Academy is located at 2323 W Parkside Ln, Phoenix, AZ 85027.