Curriculum

Our curriculum at Lighthouse Prep ATL blends rigorous academics with hands-on, curiosity-driven learning. Students build strong foundations in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies while also developing creativity, critical thinking, independence, and real-world skills.

We draw from project-based learning, Charlotte Mason inspiration, unschooling, and design thinking to create a learning experience that feels both challenging and deeply meaningful.

Academic Foundations

Reading & Writing

Students grow as readers and writers through a steady mix of rich literature, daily writing practice, and thoughtful discussion. They read widely and write often—stories, essays, reflections, analyses—building fluency, stamina, and the ability to communicate with clarity and voice. Research, annotation, and close reading skills develop naturally through projects and long-form assignments.

Math

We use a story-based math program called Life of Fred, which takes students from elementary arithmetic all the way through pre-calculus in a narrative, intuitive way that builds deep understanding. For calculus and more advanced high school math, students transition into traditional texts that prepare them for college-level expectations.

Science

Science at Lighthouse is grounded in inquiry and investigation. Students learn by asking questions, designing experiments, studying nature, and conducting hands-on labs. Whether they’re analyzing ecosystems in our forest, running engineering challenges, or preparing for the Science Fair, students learn to think like scientists—observing carefully, testing ideas, gathering data, and communicating what they discover.

Social Studies

In social studies, students explore history, culture, geography, and civics through stories, research, primary sources, and project-based learning. They examine local and global perspectives, study Black history in depth, visit museums and historical sites, and learn to understand how communities, systems, and societies work. The goal isn’t memorization—it’s context, connection, and the ability to think critically about the world.

Coding, AI & Digital Skills

Students begin with Scratch Jr and Scratch, then move into Python, web development, and app development as they grow more confident. Along the way, they explore game design, animation, digital art, the Google Suite, and creative software. Artificial intelligence is woven throughout their work—students generate AI art, use AI as a research and thinking partner, and incorporate AI tools into their coding and design projects, learning to work thoughtfully and responsibly with emerging technologies.

College, Career & Leadership

As students move into the upper grades, our program expands to include college preparation, career exploration, and real-world leadership experiences. Students learn how to set goals, manage long-term projects, build resumes and portfolios, and communicate professionally. They explore college options, understand admissions expectations, and prepare for dual enrollment, internships, and part-time jobs. Through community projects, student-led conferences, and authentic responsibilities on campus, students develop confidence, initiative, and the practical leadership skills they’ll need for adulthood.

Project Based Learning

Throughout the year, students participate in major long-term projects that require research, planning, design, revision, and presentation. These include:

  • Science Fair
  • Youth Business Fair
  • Black History Month research and exhibitions
  • LightFest
  • Student led Conferences
  • Studio showcases in art, media, engineering, and design

These projects give students authentic opportunities to produce meaningful work and develop real skills.

Wild Oasis

Wild Oasis is Lighthouse Prep’s online learning classroom — a space where students access courses, projects, challenges, and academic pathways throughout the year. Just like Google Classroom or Coursera, it organizes everything students are working on and gives them a clear place to learn, submit work, and track progress.

But Wild Oasis is more than a platform. It’s a core part of how we teach and learn.

Students move between hands-on studio work on campus and guided modules on Wild Oasis, allowing them to go deeper, practice skills independently, and explore interests at their own pace. Whether they’re studying literature, building a 3D-printed design, learning animation, preparing for college, or working on a major project, Wild Oasis supports every step of the process.

Wild Oasis gives students:

  • A single, organized place for all coursework and projects
  • The freedom to move at their pace, with teacher support
  • Access to real-world skills and interest-driven learning
  • A digital portfolio that grows with them from year to year
  • Preparation for college-style learning and career readiness

At Lighthouse, learning happens in the studio, in nature, in classrooms — and on Wild Oasis.

Together, they form one seamless learning experience.

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