See the list of new ‘cutting edge’ school programs under consideration for Lexington

A new primary performing arts academy, a new Carter G. Woodson Academy for lower grades, more schools with Spanish Immersion programs, and a new science, technology, engineering and math program for girls are all under consideration for Lexington.

These are some of several new “cutting edge” projects and programs that could “spur innovation” that district officials are exploring for Fayette County Public Schools, Superintendent Manny Caulk said Monday night.

Caulk said he will reveal more information in January when, after study, the proposals could be submitted to the school board as recommendations.

Here’s what’s being considered for 2019 to 2021, Caulk and district Chief Academic Officer Kate McAnelly said at the monthly school board meeting.

▪ A Carter G. Woodson Academy program for lower grades. Carter G. Woodson Academy provides a rigorous curriculum for males of color through the lens of black culturally responsive teaching and learning strategies. The traditional college preparatory program currently includes grades six through 12.

▪ A new high school program in which students would be graduating from high school with an associates’ post-secondary degree or trade certificates.

▪ A girls science, technology, engineering and math — or STEM program.

▪ A primary performing arts academy

▪ Expanding SCAPA so that more students in the district can attend. The School for the Creative and Performing Arts at Bluegrass and at Lafayette currently serves children in fourth through 12th grade.

▪ Expanding the district’s Spanish Immersion program, which has a waiting list. Currently, Bryan Station middle and high schools and Cardinal Valley, Liberty, Maxwell and Northern elementary schools have dual language Spanish immersion programs.

“We know we have great demand for Spanish Immersion,” Caulk said.

▪ Opening a state-of-the-art Career Academies campus.

Caulk wants more children who are currently underrepresented in magnet programs to have access to cutting edge programs.

In addition, district officials want more students to have access to existing programs which would be strengthened.

In a separate effort, middle schools also will be redesigned.

“We’re going to have to do a deep look at how we do middle schools in our communities,” said Caulk.

This story was originally published October 24, 2018 at 8:57 AM.