2016
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Award Winners

NBRS Badge for Ft. Caspar Academy

Ft. Caspar Academy - Casper, WY

First grade students engaged in learning vocabulary in Mrs. Shelly Rice

First grade students engaged in learning vocabulary in Mrs. Shelly Rice's classroom.

Fort Caspar Academy is a public elementary school located in Casper, Wyoming. About four hundred fifty students in grades kindergarten through fifth grade attend Fort Caspar Academy (FCA).

The philosophy and curriculum of FCA can be described as both back-to-basics and classical education. As a school we focus on reading, writing, and math. Science, social studies, and literature are incorporated throughout our curriculum, with a classical content focus from Core Knowledge. Other foundational components of FCA's philosophy and practices are parent involvement, character education, structured behavior interventions and supports, and accelerated academic instruction.

Fort Caspar Academy's most effective instructional practice is grounded in the use of the Spalding "Writing Road to Reading" methodology of phonics-driven writing and reading instruction. Spalding is designed as a comprehensive intervention for students who struggle with language arts. The application of direct instruction of phonics to all students, not just those who struggle with reading and writing, allows our students to learn and understand how to read sooner. Students become proficient readers early. This allows FCA to immerse students in reading rich literature and informational text with younger students. Students and teachers are able to engage in deeper questioning, discussion and writing related to material they read as current standards call for.

At FCA we recognize the importance of families and teachers working as a team to mutually support students' learning success. Included in this teamwork is a focus on character education as the foundation for academic excellence. If the child sees the importance of developing into a high-integrity adult, their focus and effort on academics is maximized.

2016 Awardee

Ft. Caspar Academy

4100 West 38th Street
Casper, WY, 82604-4453

(307) 253-3400

Principal at time of Nomination:
Mr. Richard Edwards

Choice School

Natrona County School District #1

Small city or town in a rural area

School Website

Mission

Let students learn in a structured environment, educate students' intellect and character, advocate parental involvement, ready students with core academic skills, and nurture high standards.

Student Demographics

  • Asian: 2%
  • Hispanic: 7%
  • White: 87%
  • Two or more races: 4%
  • ELL: 3%
  • Economically Disadvantaged: 21%
  • Application