Academics

‍Academic Overview

At Trillium Academy, our program is intentionally designed to support the unique strengths and needs of twice-exceptional (2e) students. The curriculum and programming are built on the interplay of appropriately challenging and engaging academics, executive function (EF) skills, and social-emotional learning (SEL). Every class integrates these three pillars in a unified manner. EF and SEL development provide the foundation 2e students need to engage deeply in learning, while academic content offers the arena to practice and refine these skills. In turn, academic success reinforces confidence and resilience, further supporting SEL growth and EF development. They are mutually reinforcing elements that create a whole-child learning experience—an approach especially vital for 2e learners.

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Here is a fully detailed alt text that preserves all relationships and labels in the diagram: ⸻ Triangular diagram showing the relationship between academics, executive functioning, and social-emotional learning. At the top is a purple circle labeled “academics.” At the bottom left is a green circle labeled “social emotional learning.” At the bottom right is a tan circle labeled “executive functioning.” Arrows connect all three areas in a continuous loop: • From social emotional learning to academics, an upward arrow labeled “engagement” and “confidence.” • From academics to executive functioning, a downward arrow labeled “strategies” and “practice.” • Between executive functioning and social emotional learning, a horizontal two-way arrow indicating a reciprocal relationship. The diagram illustrates that social-emotional learning builds engagement and confidence, which support academic success; academics develop strategies and practice that strengthen executive functioning; and executive functioning and social-emotional learning influence each other bidirectionally.

We understand the asynchronous development typical of 2e learners, and we meet students where they are by placing them in courses based on readiness, not just age. This flexible structure encourages peer connections across grade levels and fosters a dynamic, inclusive classroom environment.

Teachers, counselors, and specialists work collaboratively to ensure students are supported with the tools they need to build confidence and thrive, in school and in the future. Executive functioning skills—like time management, planning, and self-monitoring—are woven into daily learning. Similarly, students develop empathy, resilience, and self-awareness through advisory programs, restorative practices, and community-building experiences like Flex Days. They learn to view challenges as opportunities for growth, all within a community grounded in consideration, curiosity, and a growth mindset.

Trillium creates an environment of understanding, support, and trust where students can rebuild a positive relationship with learning. Learn more about our program here.

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Grading at Trillium Academy

At Trillium, grades are designed to describe learning, not to rank students or penalize differences in pace. Our students are twice-exceptional (2e) learners, which means their development is often uneven and highly individualized. For this reason, our grading system focuses on current mastery and growth over time, rather than averaging performance or emphasizing compliance, using a developmental proficiency scale. Click here to learn more about our grading system.

Humanities

Our humanities program integrates English Language Arts with History and Social Studies, helping students make meaningful connections across cultures, eras, and the world around them.

Math

Our math program builds deep conceptual understanding, helping students see mathematics as a way to model and interpret the world.

Science

Our science program develops practical skills that help our students navigate everyday life through hands-on experimentation.

World Language

Our Spanish classes focus on building proficiency and confidence through meaningful listening and reading.