Programs and Services

Core Academic Program

Project-Based Learning (PBL). Instead of worksheets and lectures all day, students learn by doing. Each trimester, they work on real-world projects that connect math, science, reading, writing, social studies, and the arts.

  • Integrated STEAM and humanities projects

  • Real audiences and authentic products (films, podcasts, exhibits, presentations)

  • Clear competencies and mastery-based feedback

Small Classes & Personalized Support

Our micro-school model allows us to know every learner well.

  • Small class sizes

  • Individual learning plans

  • Daily time for skill-building in reading, writing, and math

  • Tutoring and academic coaching as needed

THRIVE Time

THRIVE stands for the qualities we build in every learner:
Thoughtful, Hopeful, Resourceful, Innovative, Voiced, Engaged

During THRIVE Time, students:

  • Share goals, learning artifacts, progress and reflect on progress

  • Practice social-emotional skills, presentation and communication skills

  • Engage with parents, mentors and community stakeholders

At Urgent Academy, we believe middle school should be a launchpad for who young people can become—not just a place they “get through.” Our programs are designed so students THRIVE academically, creatively, and personally, while exploring real careers in film, media arts, STEAM, and entrepreneurship.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Leave to Learn Experiences. Students regularly go off-campus to experience learning in the real world:

  • Community-based organizations and service learning sites

  • Museums, galleries, and community arts spaces

  • Local businesses, colleges, and cultural sites

These trips are intentionally connected to classroom projects, so students can see how what they’re learning in school shows up in real life.

Presentations of Learning

At the end of each 12-week cycle, students present their work to families, staff, and community partners.

  • Public speaking and storytelling practice

  • Real feedback from caring adults and professionals

  • A chance to celebrate growth—not just grades

After School Program

Urgent Academy students have access to a high-quality, creative after-school program through URGENT, Inc.’s FACE Program—Film, Arts, Culture & Entrepreneurship.

FACE extends the school day with hands-on, interest-driven learning that builds confidence, skills, and community. Students can participate in:

Creative Arts & Media

  • Photography & digital storytelling

  • Beginner film production

  • Visual arts & design

Food & Nutrition

Urgent Academy participates in afterschool and meal programs so students can stay fueled and ready to learn.

  • Nutritious meals and snacks

  • Safe food handling and sanitation practices

  • Staff trained in food safety and hygiene

Media Arts & Career Exploration

Film & Media Arts

Students learn how to tell powerful stories through:

  • Film and video production

  • Photography and digital storytelling

  • Audio, podcasting, and basic editing skills

STEAM & Innovation

Students explore the “how” behind the tools they use every day:

  • Hands-on projects involving science, technology, engineering, art, and math

  • Design challenges and maker-style activities

  • Problem-solving with real-world constraints

Career-Connected Learning

We introduce students to careers early so they can begin to imagine their future:

  • Guest speakers and panel discussions

  • Workplace tours and shadowing experiences

  • Exposure to roles in media, tech, business, education, and beyond

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.