For parents seeking the flexibility of homeschooling with the support and resources of a public school, Mojave River Academy (MRA) could be the answer. This month, we will take a look at all this public charter school has to offer and see what makes it so extraordinary!
Operating under the Oro Grande School District, MRA has a total of twelve locations, one of which is right here in Phelan. It is open to all students in K-12th grade and offers a variety of hands-on learning experiences throughout the year. The school also offers credit recovery for students who may need it. “We fill the gap and support students with different needs,” shared Devin Vargas, Director of Public Information.
The independent study structure allows students to work on a set curriculum at their own pace, from the comfort of their own homes. Once a week, students are required to come into the school for an hour and meet with their assigned teacher in a one-on-one setting. This allows dedicated focus for every individual student during this time. While that is the only mandatory time the students must go in, they are welcome to come as often as they would like. MRA also offers a Math Intervention Program, providing additional support to help students strengthen their skills, as well as a brand new Art Program with a photography course, which started this past October. Tutoring is also available for students who would like extra help. While at the school, they are happy to supply snacks and small meals to those who may need them. MRA places a strong emphasis on social-emotional learning to help all students develop the skills necessary to be successful adults in the real world. “It’s tailored for success,” expressed Vargas, “We are offering a way for students to get a quality education on their terms, in a way that works for them.”
The school also offers additional classes that students can partake in, such as Culinary days, where the students will get hands-on cooking experience, and STEM days with a number of experiments for students to explore, like building their own volcano!
Field trips are also offered throughout the year. From exciting adventures to Knotts Berry Farm and Calico Ghost Town to College campus trips for older students as they begin to prepare for the next phase of life after graduation. If your high school student is eager to start a career path that requires college classes, you will be happy to know that MRA offers dual enrollment opportunities for students to do just that. For any student wanting to take advantage of being dual-enrolled, they can receive a complimentary bus pass to VVC.
Academics aside, MRA also hosts social events for students and their families. This year, they had a Grandparents Night where the students had the opportunity to bring in their grandparents for an evening of arts, crafts, and snacks. In December, students will have the opportunity to come together and celebrate the holidays with ornament decorating activities.
While the way MRA students are learning is not done in a “traditional” way, with a 95% graduation rate, the students are thriving, and that is in big part due to educators playing a key role in this unique learning environment. Two key players at MRA Phelan helping shape the lives of students are Diane Nelson, School Psychologist, and Lilly Dolan, Reading Intervention Specialist!
Nelson is entering her third year with MRA as a school psychologist. She shared what she feels makes MRA such a unique option for students and their families. “I often reflect on and enjoy the connections we as a staff make with our students and families. I have had the opportunity to work with staff at several centers throughout the high desert and often observe a student-centered approach. From instruction tailored to individual student needs to supporting students in their transition from high school into their future dreams, the staff at Mojave River Academy is committed to student success,” shared Nelson.
Dolan has also been with MRA for three years and carries over the experience of teaching in a traditional brick-and-mortar classroom. “Before joining Mojave River Academy, I worked in the community as an elementary school teacher. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for the needs, strengths, and resilience of the families here. I am truly delighted to now give back in such an impactful way—supporting students directly and helping them thrive academically and personally,” she shared. This year has been particularly exciting with the launch of MRA’s brand new Reading Intervention Program. “I feel privileged to be part of its launch and to help shape the ways we support students who need extra help in reading,” Dolan continued, “Through personalized instruction, targeted strategies, and encouragement, I work closely with teachers and families to ensure each student has a strong support system around them. My goal is to go above and beyond by not only addressing academic needs but also by fostering confidence and a love of learning.” When asked what Dolan loves most about her job and what makes MRA special, her response was heartwarming, compassionate, and everything you would want from an educator who truly cares for her students: “What makes Mojave River Academy so special is our individualized approach. Every student is given the chance to succeed at their own pace, and our staff genuinely cares about building strong relationships with students and their families. It’s truly a team effort, and I’m grateful to be part of such a supportive and dedicated community,” expressed Dolan. She continued, “I truly love the work I get to do each day. Helping students grow in their reading skills is incredibly rewarding, especially because reading can open so many doors for learning and confidence. What I enjoy most about my job is seeing students realize their own potential and celebrating their progress, no matter how big or small.”
If you are interested in learning more about Mojave River Academy, visit their website at https://www.mojaveriver.net/. You can also follow them on Facebook by searching Mojave River Academy.
