The Need in Arlington Woods
Our school model is grounded in the tale of the Sankofa bird, a story from the Akan people of Ghana. "Sankofa" translates to "go back and fetch it" and is symbolized by a mythical bird with its feet facing forward while its head turns backward, carrying an egg in its mouth. This bird symbolizes the power of reflecting on the past to move forward, using history and past experiences to shape a better future.
Strategic Focus
Character
We believe that children must possess strong character before they can begin to gain other forms of knowledge and wisdom.
Community
We believe that positive school culture ensures that academic achievement has a place to grow.
Quality
We believe that all students can build intellectual capacity and become independent learners, critical thinkers and problem solvers.
Growing Together
We know that lasting success is never achieved alone. By partnering with families, empowering educators, and investing in every scholar, Sankofa School of Success is cultivating a culture of continuous growth. Together, we are building character, strengthening community, and preparing students with the knowledge and confidence to lead the future.
Our Big Rocks
Innovative Staffing Model
● Creating talent pipelines and partnerships
● Expand “grow your own efforts” of cadet teacher program
● Researching and piloting best practices for retaining staff and responding to mid-year departures
Personalized Learning
● Team teaching models
● High dosage tutoring
● Asynchronous personalized software
● Before/after school and at home learning
Robust Student Engagement
● Attendance systems
● Incentives for attendance
● Improving sense of belonging
● Engaging hands on STEM opportunities
● Providing authentic audiences for students to share their work
Arrival & Breakfast
We start our day with each student being greeted by a staff member and a nutritious breakfast. Healthy eating promotes good habits that increase learning capacity.
Morning Circle
A joyful gathering to share a mindful moment together. This is led by the lead teacher and provides a space for students to prepare their minds for learning.
Academics
Core classes, related arts and rigorous opportunities for learning occur during our morning block at Sankofa.
Social Lunch
A gentle space for children to recharge their spirits with a nutritious meal and conversation with their classmates.
Academics
The academic day continues in the afternoon with core classes, related arts and other various rigorous activites.
Closing Circle & Dismissal
Reflecting on our day's discoveries and sharing a final mindful moment before saying goodbye until the next day.
9:15am
Morning
Afternoon
3:45pm
After School Enrichment
Students can engage in Tutoring, Clubs and Athletics. We believe a well rounded day includes moments for additional learning opportunities.
The Rhythm of Our Day
Every day at Sankofa is intentionally designed to keep students engaged, inspired, and growing. Through a balanced routine of rigorous academics, hands-on learning, movement, creative expression, collaboration, and reflection, students experience variety throughout the day that nurtures curiosity and sustains the joy of learning.
8:55am
4:00pm