Classical Academy Middle School
Escondido
7-8
Seal of A California Distinguished School featuring a central gold star over red and blue zigzag stripes, encircled by a dark blue ring with the text 'A CALIFORNIA DISTINGUISHED SCHOOL' in gold.Circular blue badge with white text reading 'RISE AWARD 2023' and a stylized number 1 integrated into the word 'RISE'.Silver circular badge with two navy blue palm trees and text reading 'The Coast News' between them, surrounded by the phrases 'The Best of North County' on top and '2026 Winner' at the bottom.

Welcome to a Flexible and Supportive Learning Environment

Smiling middle-aged man with light skin and short gray hair wearing a black suit, white shirt, and blue patterned tie against a gray background.

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Thank you for your interest in Classical Academy Middle School. My name is Tyler Powell, and I am honored to serve as principal of our school community.

Classical Academy Middle School (CAMS) is a tuition-free public charter school serving students in grades 7 and 8. Since 2014, we have partnered with families to create a supportive and engaging middle school experience where students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and personally.

Our dedicated teachers help students become confident, self-directed learners who think critically, communicate effectively, and develop the skills needed for high school and beyond. As a California Distinguished School, we are proud to offer strong academics, meaningful enrichment opportunities, and a positive school culture where students feel connected and supported.

We look forward to partnering with your family during these important middle school years.

Tyler Powell
Principal

Program Overview

Two people holding hands on an outdoor basketball court in front of a large seated crowd of diverse people wearing casual colorful clothes under a clear blue sky with trees and a light pole in the background.

Classical Academy Middle School (CAMS) provides students in grades 7 and 8 with a well-rounded middle school experience that combines on-campus learning with independent study at home. Our flexible program partners credentialed teachers with parent educators to create a personalized and supportive learning environment.

Students are encouraged to grow academically, personally, and socially while developing the skills needed for success in high school and beyond. We provide a balance of academic rigor, meaningful support, and engaging instruction that helps students build confidence, responsibility, and independence.

A teacher and four students sitting around a white table in a classroom, each holding and reading from books, with the teacher and a female student smiling and engaging in discussion.

Students attend classes on campus Tuesdays through Thursdays and complete assignments at home on Mondays and Fridays with support from their home educator. This model allows families flexibility while maintaining strong teacher guidance and academic accountability.

On campus, students participate in all core subjects, including math, science, English, and history. Teachers use a variety of instructional approaches such as direct instruction, hands-on learning, collaborative projects, labs, discussions, and technology integration, to create engaging and meaningful learning experiences.

Courses are aligned with Common Core State Standards and designed to encourage critical thinking, communication, creativity, and real-world application of knowledge. Technology is integrated throughout the program, providing students with opportunities to develop important digital literacy and problem-solving skills.

Student Activities & Enrichment

Electives
Students participate in weekly elective classes designed to encourage creativity, exploration, and personal growth. Elective offerings vary throughout the year and may include art, STEM, soccer, pickleball, Spanish, leadership, and more.

Associated Student Body (ASB)
ASB students serve as leaders on campus by planning events, promoting school spirit, and supporting positive campus culture. Through leadership opportunities and service projects, students develop communication, teamwork, and leadership skills while building community.

K-8 ASB

Field Trips
Students have opportunities to participate in memorable educational field trips that extend learning beyond the classroom. Overnight trips may include Catalina Island and the East Coast, providing students with hands-on experiences connected to science, history, and leadership.

Athletics
The after-school sports program offers 7th and 8th-grade students opportunities to build teamwork, leadership, and school spirit through athletics. Sports rotate throughout the year based on student interest and coach availability and may include volleyball, flag football, soccer, basketball, cross-country, track and field, and more. Teams compete in the Escondido Small Schools League.

A classroom of students seated at desks playing ukuleles, with several instrument cases on a table in the foreground and an American flag on the wall.

Campus Life
CAMS offers a vibrant campus experience with activities designed to build connection and school spirit. Throughout the year, students may participate in spirit days, school dances, pep rallies, community service projects, food drives, book fairs, science and history fairs, cohort competitions, and other special events.

Musical Theater
Musical theater provides students with opportunities to build confidence, creativity, and collaboration through the performing arts. Students can participate in multiple productions throughout the year, including a “Best of Broadway” showcase, a talent show, and a full spring musical. Past performances have included Aladdin, The Lion King, The Wizard of Oz, and Peter Pan.

Four actors in vibrant costumes stand arm in arm on stage. From left: a scarecrow with a patched brown outfit and straw protrusions, a girl in a white blouse with a green gingham dress, a person dressed as a tin man with metallic silver face paint and a funnel hat, and a lion character with a furry mane, brown outfit, and green fan raised in the air. Behind them are three other actors in colorful, whimsical costumes, standing in front of a scenic green background with a painted archway and yellow brick road.

Dance Team
Dance Team gives students the opportunity to explore a variety of dance styles while developing confidence, teamwork, and performance skills. Students build strength, flexibility, coordination, and lasting friendships in a fun and encouraging environment.

Special Education

The Classical Academy is committed to supporting the unique learning needs of all students. Our Special Education Department partners closely with families, teachers, and support staff to ensure students receive individualized instruction and services designed to help them succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.Students who qualify for special education services receive support through an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) tailored to their specific strengths and needs. Services are provided in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), with a strong belief that students thrive when supported within general education settings whenever appropriate.Our collaborative team approach includes parents, students, general education teachers, special education staff, and related service providers working together to create meaningful learning opportunities and promote student growth. The Classical Academy provides a continuum of services aligned with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and is dedicated to ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education.

Conferences

Teachers meet with students and parents through student-led conferences. These meetings provide opportunities to review academic progress, reflect on goals, celebrate growth, and discuss next steps in learning. Conferences help strengthen communication and partnership between families, students, and teachers.

Contact Principal Powell:

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