Frequently Asked Questions

Overview

We know that before joining Taos Academy, families often have lots of questions about how our school works. We operate differently from traditional public schools, and a big part of that difference comes from the way we collaborate and support our students. Our FAQ is designed to give you clear insights and answers to common questions.

For more details, be sure to check our Student Handbook, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you’d like to connect with us directly.

Who does Taos Academy serve?

Taos Academy provides a free public educational choice to students of all ability levels and educational needs from grades five through twelve. Taos Academy began offering classes in the Fall of 2009 with an enrollment of 70 students. Currently, Taos Academy has 200+ students. We will select students using a lottery system as prescribed by New Mexico state law.

What does Taos Academy seek to accomplish?

Taos Academy seeks to develop the skills needed for academic and social responsibility in every member of our learning community. As a learning community, all stakeholders, including students, staff, and parents of Taos Academy will be committed to high academic achievement, development of leadership skills, and involvement in community outreach.

What is a “hybrid academy?”

Taos Academy provides a hybrid instructional model. Courses are taken online and in-class with face-to-face work with instructors, peers, and community members. Students are instructed in the use of a technology-based program and will have the option of receiving their courses at home and/or in our technology lab.

Is Taos Academy Accredited?

Yes, Taos Academy provides highly qualified New Mexico certified teachers for each subject in addition to transcripts and diplomas. Taos Academy is accredited through New Mexico Public Education Department.

What does Taos Academy provide for the community?

Taos Academy is providing grades 5-12 quality core and elective education courses via electronic means and on campus in our state-of-the-art technology labs.

What are “student-centered services” and Instructional Advisors?

Each student is evaluated to determine the appropriate level of the course for which the student should enroll. With the guidance of an assigned instructional advisor the student is then prescribed an Individual Learning Plan (ILP). Individual progress is monitored on a weekly or bi-weekly basis as determined by the Instructional Advisor.

What are the attendance and exam expectations?

On-campus attendance is based on each student’s needs, determined in consultation with their instructional advisor. Taos Academy follows a base schedule that ensures equal access for all students while remaining flexible to support individual learning paths.

Mid-High (Grades 5–8): Attend on campus Mondays and Wednesdays, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
High School (Grades 9–12): Attend on campus Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Morning sessions are dedicated to core academic instruction, while afternoon sessions focus on electives.

In addition to on-campus attendance, students are expected to complete about 20 hours of online coursework per week or as needed to stay current with each class lesson schedule, from home.

All students are required to be on campus during state testing periods.

Students are also welcome to use campus facilities Monday through Thursday to work on their coursework outside of their scheduled days.

Can my child attend Taos Academy 100% online?

Yes. Taos Academy offers a FLEX program that allows students to complete their studies fully online from anywhere with reliable internet. Each student is assigned an Academic Advisor for ongoing support, and small group sessions, 1:1 meetings, and tutoring are available as needed. Students enrolling through another district will coordinate with their home school to ensure appropriate course selection and progress.

The FLEX 100% Online program at Taos Academy is designed for families who can provide a supportive learning environment at home and are committed to working in partnership with the school.

If you are interested in enrolling in our FLEX program, please call us (575 751-3109) or email contact@taosacademy.org

Can my child participate in sports activities?

Taos Academy will not be offering sports programming at this time. Students may participate on sport teams offered through the Taos Municipal Schools with permission from TMS superintendent and coaches.

How involved do I need to be as a parent?

As educators, we have found that success is directly related to parental involvement. Your student has a better opportunity to succeed when you take part in the educational process. Taos Academy parents need to transport their child to the school when necessary, provide a nutritious lunch on the days their child comes to school, and regularly check-in on-line as to the progress their student is making and to check for school news on our website. Access to internet service is a must. Parents of our students have shared with us that they have learned a lot from the online platform. Every moment is a “teachable” moment. Additional opportunities for involvement are offered in advisory council, fund raising, field trip supervision, and school supported committees.

How do I enroll in Taos Academy?

Visit the Enroll Now page on this site and enter a “Intent to Enroll Form” to be entered into our lottery. Taos Academy will be selecting students from a lottery process. Watch for information about this process and dates for selection into the lottery.

What about lunch and transportation?

Taos Academy will not be providing a lunch or transportation program. Students will need to bring lunch if they are scheduled to be in the school for a full day. Parents and students need to arrange transportation to and from school according to student’s schedule.

What is required to attend?

Families should provides Taos Academy Students with access to a high speed internet connection and an up to date, operational computer at home. Parents must be willing to use their (provided) Taos Academy email address for communication.

What are some recommendations for success?

Students need to be or approaching to be independent learners, preparing for post secondary education, within one grade level in reading ability, have basic computer skills, and looking for an environment where academic learning comes first.

What is the College Link Dual Credit Program (CLP) and the requirements to participate?

Students in grades 11 and 12 may take advantage of CLP allowing them to take college level classes for both HS and college credit simultaneously. These classes are aligned to the student’s career goals and attempts to provide the student with credit hours at the college level prior to starting. Visit our ECHS page for more information

Frequently Asked Questions

Overview