Program & Curriculum at Dare To Be Academy

At Dare To Be Academy, we don’t follow a one-size-fits-all curriculum. We build our program around your child’s strengths, interests, and pace of learning. Our learner-led model empowers students to explore what excites them—while still mastering foundational academic and life skills.

Schedule a Tour

Learning That Starts With the Child, Not the System

🧠
Core Curriculum Pillars

Language Arts & Literacy

We build literacy through phonics, comprehension, oral language, and expression—using interest-based projects and communication supports like ASL and AAC when needed.

Math & Numeracy

Math is taught through real-world application: money, time, measurement, and problem-solving—making abstract concepts tangible.

STEM & Project-Based Learning

We use hands-on labs, student-led experiments, and group problem-solving to connect science, tech, engineering, and math to everyday life.

Social Studies & SEL

From cultural awareness to emotional regulation, we explore the world and our place in it through stories, games, and guided peer interactions.

Creative Arts & Music

Every student has daily opportunities to express themselves through music and art.

Life Skills & Executive Functioning

We embed cooking, gardening, cleaning, and decision-making into our weekly routine. These are vital tools for independence and future success.

✋ Sensory-Safe,
Brain-Friendly Learning

Sensory Learning Labs

Students engage in multisensory activities that support both learning and self-regulation.

Flexible Seating & Calming Spaces

Children choose from a variety of seating and quiet areas to feel safe, comfortable, and focused.

Mindfulness & Movement Breaks

We incorporate daily movement and mindfulness to help students reset, regulate, and re-engage.

Outdoor Play Woven Into Each Day

Outdoor time is built into our day to support sensory needs, physical health, and curiosity.

Individualized Supports for Communication & Regulation

Each student receives personalized tools to support how they express themselves and manage emotions.

📚 Curriculum Tools & Support Materials

We use research-based programs designed specifically for neurodiverse learners:

The Autism Helper – core academic framework

Khan Academy / Zearn – math support

IXL / Lexia – literacy and numeracy practice

Handwriting Without Tears – fine motor skills

Social Thinking – SEL and peer interaction

Daily Schedule

Monday - Thursday

9:00 am - 3:00 pm

9:00 - 9:10 AM: Drop Off / Indoor Play

9:10 - 9:20 AM: Morning Meetup

9:20 - 10:00 AM: Language Arts

10:00 - 10:40 AM: Math

10:40 - 11:10 AM: Snack & Morning Recess

11:10 - 12:00 PM: Music / Art

12:00 - 1:00 PM: Lunch / Afternoon Recess

1:00 - 1:20 PM: Reading

1:20 - 1:50 PM: STEM

1:50 - 2:00 PM: Snack

2:00 - 2:50 PM: Social Studies & SEL

2:30- 2:50 PM: Sensory Time

2:50 - 3:00 PM: Pack Up / Pick Up

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dare To Be Academy?

Dare to Be Academy is a K–5 microschool in Maricopa, AZ, designed for neurodiverse learners. We’re guided by our core values: Be Kind, Be True, Be Curious, and Be Wise.

What are the school hours?

Monday-Thursday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

What is the cost of tuition, and do you accept ESA?

Yes! We accept ESA. Tuition is paid quarterly and varies based on student need:

No/Low Support Needs (Universal ESA)

Grades 1-5: $1,800

Kindergarten: $1,100

Full-Time High Support Needs (Special Needs ESA)

Grades 1-5: $5,900

Kindergarten: $4,500Part-Time (2 days)

High Support Needs

All grades: $3,000

**Snacks, lunch, school supplies, and field trips are included in tuition!**

What subjects do you offer?

We offer all core subjects (language arts, math, STEM, and social studies), as well as music, art, and social-emotional learning (SEL).

What curriculum do you use?

Our primary curriculum is The Autism Helper, a data-backed program designed specifically for neurodiverse learners. For STEM, we use hands-on kits, manipulatives, and experiments to encourage exploration and discovery. Chromebooks are integrated into learning through supplemental activities and games that promote engagement.

Do students use technology in the classroom?

Yes! Each student is provided with a Chromebook for use during school hours. Technology is incorporated through educational apps, interactive lessons, and engaging activities to support learning in a structured way.

How do you assess student progress?

We use a variety of assessment methods tailored to each student’s needs, including observational notes, portfolio assessments, and individualized goal tracking. Progress is monitored through hands-on projects, life skills assessments, and regular communication with parents. We consider sensory, social, and emotional growth alongside academic achievement.

How do you determine student success?

Because our students have varying needs and abilities, we focus on competency-based mastery rather than strict grade levels. At DTBA, mastery is defined as at least 80% proficiency in 80% of a given content area.

Do you offer homework or take-home assignments?

We are a no-homework school, but extra practice materials can be provided upon request.

Do you provide speech, occupational, or ABA therapy during school hours?

We do not offer these services at this time, but your child’s therapist is welcome to provide sessions during school hours.

How do you support sensory needs and emotional regulation?

We provide emotional regulation resources such as a sensory swing, swivel chair, and weighted vests. Students are allowed breaks as needed, and we implement daily sensory play activities.

Do students bring their own lunch and snacks?

A morning snack, afternoon snack, and lunch are included in tuition. However, parents are welcome to send food from home if preferred.

What is your drop-off and pick-up policy?

Drop-off: 9:00-9:10 AM

Pick-up: 2:50-3:00 PM

Late pick-up fee: $35 for every 30 minutes after 3:00 PM.

How do you communicate with parents about their child’s progress?

We provide quarterly progress reports, in-person meetings, and ongoing communication through email and phone calls as needed.

How can parents be involved in their child’s learning experience?

Enrolling at DTBA includes a commitment to volunteer hours. Parents can participate during school hours, assist on field trips, or contribute in other meaningful ways.

Mission & Vision Statement

Mission: To create a safe, inclusive, and empowering learning environment where neurodivergent children can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Through hands-on experiences and interest-based learning, we help students build confidence, community, and real-world skills.

Vision: Dare to Be Academy is a learner-first, learner-led educational community where students feel empowered to explore their interests, develop essential life skills, and build meaningful relationships. We believe in creating a safe, sensory-friendly space where every child is valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Core Values

Be Kind

We foster empathy, respect, and a sense of belonging.

Be True

We celebrate authenticity and encourage self-expression.

Be Curious

We lead with questions and learn through exploration.

Be Wise

We help students think critically and solve real-world problems.

Portrait of a Graduate

When students graduate from Dare To Be Academy, they leave with:

Functional literacy, math, and communication skills

Confidence in who they are and how they learn

Emotional regulation, resilience, and self-advocacy

Independence in daily living and learning tasks

A belief in themselves as learners—and as people

Want to see how we personalize learning for your child?

Call or Text Us at 520-230-2272