School Wide Literacy Focus
A School Wide Literacy Focus supported by a balanced reading and writing program is emphasized at each grade level developing a mastery of critical concepts in literacy. Students are immersed in reading and writing for real purposes based on their interests and individual abilities. Learning is enhanced through Reading and Writing Workshop, a literacy program developed by The Teacher's College Reading and Writing Project at Columbia University in New York City.
GOLD RIBBON SCHOOL
In the Spring of 2016 Arroyo West Active Learning Academy was named a California Gold Ribbon School, an honor awards to just over 700 schools in the entire state. In May of 2016 teachers from AWALA joined other schools and honored guests at a celebration in Los Angeles. During this ceremony schools were recognized for their unique model programs, and for the difficult work they are doing in California schools today. Tom Torlakson, State Superintendent of Schools quoted one of AWALA's favorite African Proverbs by stating "If you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far, go together". This was a theme AWALA teachers and staff lived by this past school year, and in the years previous, as we implemented our model program of Growing Active Thinkers and Lifelong Readers and Writers. We could not be more proud of the students, the staff and the community for earning this amazing honor.