What We’re Saying

Great Classrooms Video Series

Effective instructional practices from dedicated educators in Las Vegas

At the heart of a great school are great classrooms and educators who are responsive to the needs of every student. This video series captures some of the instructional practices working for students across the urban core of the Las Vegas Valley.

Nevada Prep

“No matter how the world changes or what the future looks like, students will be well served by communicating powerfully, thinking critically, and by being able to lead others.”
-David Blodgett, Founding Principal

The featured approaches working for students at Nevada Prep, an East Las Vegas middle school, include:

  • Small group instruction & supplemental tech tools to help students catch-up or get ahead academically
  • A focus on communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills across all classrooms & subject areas
  • High expectations and a shared belief in what’s possible for ALL students

Helen M. Smith Elementary

“Regardless of what students are coming in with, they know that the expectation is high, and they know that they have all the tools necessary to meet those expectations. We have that sense of urgency in the class to learn without using excuses.”
-Catalina Allen, 5th Grade Teacher

The featured approaches working for students at Helen Marie Smith, a Clark County School District Elementary School with Shining Star recognition by the state for its academic performance with all students, include:

  • Communication skills
  • Self-monitoring and ownership of learning
  • Positive relationships with students
  • High expectations for all students

Democracy Prep at the Agassi Campus

“To have a successful school, it starts with a good cultural floor. You cannot teach in chaos.”
-Alex Daniels, Principal

The featured approaches working for students at Democracy Prep at the Agassi Campus (DPAC) Middle School, a four-star school located in North Las Vegas, include:

  • 21st century preparation
  • Consistency and structure in the classroom
  • High expectations for all students
  • Developing self-reliance

Futuro Academy

“Our goal is always going to be to prepare students for the real world and career.”
-Ignacio Prado, Executive Director

The featured approaches working for students at Nevada Prep, an East Las Vegas middle school, include:

  • Small group instruction & supplemental tech tools to help students catch-up or get ahead academically
  • A focus on communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills across all classrooms & subject areas
  • High expectations and a shared belief in what’s possible for ALL students

Mater Academy – Mountain Vista

“When students feel that sense of relationship here in this building, they will do anything and everything to be successful.”
Renee Fairless, Principal

The featured approaches working for students at Mater Academy Mountain Vista Middle School include:

  • Tailored supports for English Language Learners
  • Rigor and relevancy in instructional content
  • Critical thinking, communication, and creativity skills
  • High expectations and belief in all students

Nevada Rise

The featured approaches working for students at Nevada Rise include:

  • Small group instruction
  • Additional 45 minutes per day of support for students to catch up
  • Opportunities for students to experience the world around them
  • Strong school community and relationships with families

Thiriot Elementary

The featured approach working for students at Joseph E. Thiriot, a Clark County School District Elementary School with Shining Star recognition by the state for its academic performance with all students is:

  • Whole Brain Teaching

Equipo Academy

The featured approaches working for students at Equipo Academy, an East Las Vegas college prep public charter school, include:

  • Focus on college access for all students
  • High expectations and rigorous instruction
  • Strong family partnerships