Originally designed for elementary schools, the program now covers kindergarten through grade 8 and emphasizes student-centered and constructivist learning. The philosophy is based on three democratic principles and a commitment to provide powerful learning to all students . Each Accelerated School is different, but each uses the philosophy and process of the Accelerated Schools Project to determine its own vision and goals. Each Accelerated School determines its own set of standards for student achievement based upon its unique needs, strengths and vision, incorporating state and local mandates. Many schools incorporate student demonstrations, projects, and portfolios into their programs, with assessments done by teachers, peers as well as self-evaluation.
Coaches are an important resource for the entire school community.
Each accelerated school decides how to integrate technology into its unique curricular, instructional, and assessment program. The above information on Accelerated Schools was obtained from the Accelerated Schools Project web site and hardcopy materials.