Academics
The CBA academic program offers a college preparatory core curriculum emphasizing on literacy, critical thinking, writing, humanities, laboratory sciences, mathematics and foreign language. Our student to staff ratio is 6:1, and the Academy faculty is devoted to developing each student's intellect, independent thinking, free inquiry and appreciation for learning. We nurture creativity through programs in music, creative writing, film and art.
The Block Approach to academics
Academic classes are offered in four blocks from September through May. Students will take 2 classes per quarter/block allowing the to take 8 courses maximum in the academic year. Each class period is two hours long allowing for intensive study in every course. Many of our students compete at high levels in their sport and need to take one or two quarters off from school in order to focus solely on their performance outside of the classroom. These students are still able to take 4-6 classes per year and maintain there course requirements. Students are encouraged to stretch themselves and take full advantage of all that Crested Butte Academy offers.
Small Classes, dedicated faculty
CBA classes are small; teaching techniques are varied; and teachers are available for help outside the classroom. Quiet evening study hours are mandatory for boarders, either in their room, in the classroom or with a teacher or advisor. As students mature, they are given more independence, and by senior year a student should have a real capacity for self-motivation and decision-making.
Integrated Learning Curriculum
The Integrated Learning Curriculum is utilized in most of our core academic courses. This curriculum allows students to have access to their courses online