Our Approach
Our unique approach centers on relationships, community, and sustainability. At Alchemy Studios & Labs, students unleash their true potential through engaging instruction in math, science, reading, and writing instruction, as well as captivating projects and off-site internships tailored to their interests; ultimately fostering the development of each student's unique genius.
Learner Driven
We nurture unique genius through dynamic instruction, tailored projects and internships, while championing agency, relationships, community, and sustainability.
Teacher Powered
Our teachers are co-designing and engaging in consensus-based decision-making to guide the direction of the school.
One Student at a Time
Our class sizes are small and we aim to mirror Houston's racial, socioeconomic, and neuro diversity, fostering compassion and joy for the future by embracing differences.
Graduate Aims
We believe that learning is a non-linear process and for that reason, our graduate aims are ARCS that engage students in connecting with, growing and contributing their creative genius
Agency
Students embrace an apprentice-based learning approach at Alchemy, immersing themselves in real-world experiences to develop unique strengths and artistry with guidance and feedback. Alchemy graduates develop student agency through a hands-on apprenticeship model, integrating real-world practices and mentorship. They apply skills in authentic contexts, receive mentor feedback, and showcase a unique professional and artistic identity, emphasizing practical knowledge and impactful contributions.
Relationships
Students foster affirming and honest relationships, rooted in a shared understanding of rich work. At Alchemy, we recognize the importance of collaboration and support in achieving excellence in learning and personal growth. Alchemy graduates build a strong learning community through collaboration, peer feedback, and discussions focused on academic skills and professional standards. This culture of mutual support enhances adaptability, communication, and collaboration, preparing graduates for lifelong success.
Culture
Honoring cultural traditions and co-creating a culture of excellence at Alchemy and beyond. Engaging in diverse, community-embedded, interest-based internships to solve real-world problems and celebrate individual and cultural gifts.
Self-Reflection
Our goal is to cultivate students as self-aware and sustainable learners, fostering a holistic approach to education. This entails prioritizing scheduled practices that emphasize physical and emotional well-being, reflection, and nature exploration. Advisory groups offer a space for sharing experiences, setting goals, and enhancing self-awareness. Students showcase their growth and identities through arts and writing, developing storytelling skills and commitment to sustainability. This approach prepares students for a meaningful contribution in life.
Creative Genius
Creative genius describes a unique blend of individual creativity and exceptional skill that exists in all of us and is developed through practice and consistent self-expression and reflection. "Contribute creative genius" involves adding unique value to a community or project by leveraging individual strengths creatively. Students are encouraged to identify their talents, develop a sense of purpose, and tackle challenges with originality and imagination. This approach nurtures creativity through playfulness, inventiveness, and problem-solving, preparing graduates to be confident contributors in innovative and collaborative environments.
Class Schedule
sample class schedule
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Advisory is like a second family for students, where they build community, set goals, and discuss their well-being. Students work with the same advisor and classmates throughout high school, building lasting bonds and learning skills to stay resilient and focused.
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Students build strong math skills through practice, discussion, and collaborative learning with guidance from excellent teachers and content experts. They engage with high-quality materials to develop fluency, solve real-world problems, and explore important mathematical concepts. Through group discussions and peer teaching, students deepen their understanding and learn to communicate mathematical ideas in various contexts. Students are encouraged to see math everywhere—in patterns, data, and problem-solving—and to cultivate a love for math as a tool for understanding and shaping the world. This foundation, supported by expert instruction, prepares them for success in college, careers, and everyday life.
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Students dive into science, technology, engineering, arts, math, and social studies by exploring real-world problems and questions in small teams. In science, they use the scientific method to conduct experiments and analyze data, investigating topics like ecosystems, energy, or climate change. In social studies, they study history, culture, and current events to understand how these issues affect communities. Students brainstorm, research, and design creative solutions to challenges such as improving water quality or designing sustainable housing. They build prototypes, apply their learning in practical ways, and present their findings and products to experts and peers. This hands-on, collaborative process helps students understand complex ideas and connect their learning to the real world.
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Students develop strong reading and writing skills through practice, discussion, and collaborative learning with guidance from excellent teachers and content experts. They engage with high-quality materials to explore important ideas and improve their ability to communicate effectively in various contexts, such as academic discussions, professional settings, and creative projects. Students also cultivate a love for reading by exploring diverse texts for both enjoyment and to stay informed, building a lifelong habit of learning and critical thinking. This foundation, supported by expert instruction, prepares them for success in college, careers, and beyond.
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In small teams, students solve real-world problems by brainstorming, researching, and building prototypes. This hands-on, creative process helps them understand complex ideas and apply their learning in practical ways.
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Students gain real-world experience by interning with professionals twice a week. These internships provide valuable learning, mentorship, and certifications. Before they begin, students receive training in communication and professional skills. Throughout the year, they work on projects to showcase their learning.