ESSDACK operates two charter schools and an online learning environment.

Turning Point Learning Center (Emporia, KS)
 

    As Emporia’s charter school, Turning Point Learning Center (TPLC) offers a unique learning environment for students eager to learn, willing to develop into self-starters, and who would like to participate in crafting their own learning opportunities. We emphasize the development of 21st Century skills in an increasingly digital and global environment. Through the use of
Project Based Learning (PBL) and up-to-date technology tools, students are engaged in
learning required content and skills through the use of complex, authentic questions and
carefully designed products and tasks.
 

    Employing alternative ways of thinking about learning, TPLC directly involves students in their own education through projects that integrate curriculum areas, thematic instruction, and community issues. PBL requires students to know how to plan, set goals, communicate with others, and how to become better problem solvers. By understanding that the four walls of a school are no longer the limits of an education, PBL engages and motivates students, encourages the development of lifelong habits important for career development and success, and meets the needs of varying academic abilities and learning styles.
 

    Turning Point Learning Center believes that a collaborative triangle between the family, school, and community is essential for student success. Family participation, as a fundamental support system, is essential for student success. Communication between school, family, and the larger community is top priority in the complete education of an educated global citizen.
 

Pleasantview Academy Charter School

    Pleasantview Academy is a charter school in the Haven 312 school district operated by Educational Service and Staff Development Association of Central Kansas (ESSDACK).
        
    Pleasantview Academy opened in 2001 as a math and science support center for home school students. As the school developed, the staff listened to the needs of the students and the concerns of the parents. Parents retain primary responsibility for their children’s learning. Providing flexible, family friendly, intellectually rich educational opportunities has always been at the core of Pleasantview Academy philosophy. The primary objective of Pleasantview Academy is to provide engaging, project-based learning opportunities to develop each student into a self-directed learner.
   
     Pleasantview Academy focuses on student achievement, and credit is earned upon demonstration of learning. Achievement is documented in both a traditional transcript and a personal portfolio. No credit is given for “seat time.”
Pleasantview serves a diverse community of students from public school, private school and home school backgrounds. Students from six counties enjoy the flexible environment and challenging, academic experience.

Virtual Schools

ESSDACK operates a virtual instruction program used to supplement our Charter schools, our learning centers, and as an aid for home-school students.  For more information about our Virtual programs, contact Terri Peckham.