TMSA Public Charter Schools by Ben Karaduman

all students can reach their maximum potential

www.tmsapcs.org Where

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Ben Karaduman Superintendent

Welcome to TMSA

Welcome to TMSA, North Carolina’s leading network of high-performing non-profit public charter schools dedicated to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) education. With campuses in Apex, Cary, Charlotte, and Greensboro, we strive to provide a top-notch, tuition-free education to over 4,000 students from kindergarten through 12th grade.

At TMSA, we have a big goal in mind. By 2025, we aim to be consistently recognized as one of the top STEM/STEAM schools in North Carolina. Our aspiration is to rank within the Top 20 STEM/STEAM schools in the state according to U.S. News and World Report, receive an A-level report card from the NC DPI, be acknowledged as NC STEM Schools of Distinction, and achieve high rankings in Math and Science competitions at both the state and national levels.

To achieve our goals, we have identified key priorities that guide our actions:

Academic Excellence: We are committed to creating a culture that fosters STEAM excellence, enabling all students to realize their full potential.

Inclusive Community: We strive to foster an inclusive community that celebrates diversity, creates a safe and nurturing learning environment, and ensures that every member of the TMSA community has the necessary resources and support to thrive.

Effective STEAM Partnerships: We actively develop and maintain partnerships with external stakeholders in the STEAM field, connecting our students, staff, and communities with innovators, experts, and entrepreneurs.

Effective and Efficient Governance, Operations, and Management: We continually enhance the leadership and governance capacity of the TMSA Board and Leadership Team to implement, monitor, and assess our strategic goals. We also prioritize accountability, transparency, and best-practice procedures to ensure effective operations and management.

Join us at TMSA as we work towards our ambitious goals. Together, we will cultivate academic excellence, build an inclusive community, forge impactful partnerships, and ensure effective governance and operations. Discover why TMSA stands out as a premier provider of STEAM education in North Carolina, and be a part of our journey towards a brighter future.

Creativity

We learn, imagine, question, and explore the world with open minds. We are comfortable with ambiguity.

Our Values

Empathy

We are compassionate and kind, respecting and nurturing the wellbeing of all individuals.

Integrity

We are honest, take full ownership over our actions and choices, and have the courage to do the right thing.

Inclusion

Leadership

We are proactive leaders in our schools and communities, making meaningful choices and developing independence.

Science Wisdom Peace Our Motto

Our Mission

Through STEAM-focused academics, character education, social-emotional learning, and strong family support, TMSA prepares students to succeed in careers and to thrive as leaders in our diverse and technology-based society.

Our Vision

As a premier provider of STEAM education in North Carolina, TMSA educates the next generation of leaders to succeed in careers and contribute positively to their communities and the world

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

NEW IDENTITY & LOGO STORY

OLD VERISON

STEAM & TMSA

NEW VERISON

The TMSA logo was carefully chosen through a stakeholder voting process, selecting from five distinct design proposals. The logo incorporates symbols that symbolize the essence of STEAM education, encompassing science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Each of these disciplines is represented by a unique color, reflecting their individual importance within the curriculum. Additionally, the logo features the name of the respective city or region to represent each specific TMSA school. The acronym “TMSA” stands for “The Math and Science Academy,” with the potential for future expansions to include the addition of the city’s name, ensuring a sense of local identity and growth.

ENGINEERING

ART

SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY MATH

SCIENCE WISDOM PEACE

HISTORY

The logos of our schools that we used in the previous period

We are North Carolina’s growing network of high-performing non-profit public charter schools focusing on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics). We serve more than 3,000 students from kindergarten through 12th grade on six campuses in North Carolina.

We are tuition-free and operated by an independent board of directors. Our first school, Triad Math and Science Academy (TMSA Triad), was established in 2008 by a group of public charter school advocates who supported compelling, diverse, and well-funded public charter schools. As increasingly high demand exceeded the number of seats available, TMSA Triad was followed by Triangle Math and Science Academy (TMSA Triangle) in 2012. Our newest school, The Math and Science Academy of Apex (TMSA Apex), opened its doors in Fall 2022. Queen City STEM School, founded in Charlotte in 2015, joined the TMSA family as The Math and Science Academy of Charlotte (TMSA Charlotte) in June 2022.

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS AND CURRICULUM

Hands on/Project Based Learning/

PLTW (Project Lead the Way)

Elementary School:

PLTW Launch Program

Middle School:

PLTW Gateway Program

High School:

PLTW Biomedical Science

PLTW Engineering

PLTW Computer Science

In addition to the NC Standard Course of Study, TMSA champions a “Handson, Project-based Learning Model.” The best learning happens when students actively engage with real-world problems and work collaboratively to design solutions.

TMSA’s approach is to connect the dots between academic knowledge and real-world applications, instilling in students not only a deep understanding of S.T.E.A.M. subjects but also essential 21st-century skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication.

TMSA integrated Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs at all levels to ensure a consistent, hands-on, and immersive S.T.E.A.M. learning experience.

PLTW Launch (Elementary):

Students engage in playful, exploratory learning, experiencing hands-on activities that pique their interest in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

PLTW Gateway (Middle School):

Acts as a bridge, expanding knowledge from the elementary level while introducing more complex concepts. Students participate in projects that are designed to stimulate their interest and prepare them for further specialized study.

PLTW Engineering, Computer Science, and Biomedical Science (High School):

Provides students with an opportunity to specialize in their areas of interest. TMSA students learn not just the theoretical aspects but also how to apply this knowledge in practical settings through projects that address real-world challenges.

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

Join us in this journey where students don’t just learn — they imagine, create, and innovate.

TMSA’s PLTW (Project Lead the Way) Program offers practical, real-world applications of the knowledge gained in the classroom, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. This unique educational approach at TMSA ensures students are well-equipped for future academic and professional success as they develop not just S.T.E.A.M. competencies but also vital soft skills like teamwork, communication, and resilience. By implementing these programs, TMSA prepares its students to be the innovators, creators, and leaders of the next generation.

Path to Prestigious Universities

Unlock your path to prestigious universities with TMSA Public Charter Schools College Counseling Program. Our experienced counselors provide personalized guidance, helping students secure acceptances from top-tier institutions like Harvard and UNC Chapel Hill. In the 2022-2023 school year alone, our students earned over $5 million in scholarships, a testament to our program’s effectiveness. We prioritize holistic development, offering mentorship and resources for extracurricular activities and community service. Our program also includes a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses, ensuring academic rigor and preparing students for the challenges of higher education. With a focus on both academics and personal growth, we empower students to become well-rounded individuals ready to succeed at the collegiate level and beyond. Join TMSA and unleash your potential for success. Your dream university awaits.

SCIENCE WISDOM PEACE

LEADER IN ME / CHARACTER ED WHOLE-CHILD APPROACH

TMSA is committed to providing a well-rounded education that goes beyond academics.

TMSA’s “Leader in Me” program draws inspiration from Stephen R. Covey’s book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” and focuses on empowering students with leadership qualities and critical thinking skills. Through this program, students learn to take initiative, set goals, collaborate effectively, and develop essential communication and problem-solving abilities. By emphasizing personal responsibility, integrity, and teamwork, “Leader in Me” prepares students to become leaders in various aspects of their lives.

TMSA also places a strong emphasis on character education. This program aims to teach and reinforce positive values, ethical principles, and social skills. Students are encouraged to develop a strong moral compass, demonstrating empathy, respect, honesty, and responsibility.

TMSA’s character education program creates a safe and inclusive environment where students learn to make informed decisions, show compassion towards others, and become responsible citizens. By instilling these values, TMSA helps students develop strong character traits that will serve them well in their personal and professional lives. TMSA is actively working towards becoming one of the National Schools of Character. This prestigious recognition is awarded by Character.org, a leading organization dedicated to promoting character education in schools across the United States.

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

In addition to these specific programs, TMSA follows a whole-child approach and understands that education encompasses more than just academics and prioritizes the holistic development of each student.

TMSA believes in addressing students’ physical, social, emotional, and cognitive needs and provides opportunities for physical fitness, artistic expression, and emotional well-being, and fosters positive relationships between students, teachers, and parents. By taking a comprehensive approach, TMSA aims to create an educational environment that supports the overall growth and success of its students.

ACADEMIC TEAMS

TMSA offers students a wide array of opportunities to participate in both academic and competitive teams. This unique approach fosters not only a strong sense of camaraderie among students but also helps them develop crucial skills such as critical thinking, problemsolving, and effective communication. These skills are integral in every academic discipline and essential for their future careers. Some examples of TMSA competitive teams include Chess, Coding, Cyber Security, Science Olympiad, Robotics, Future City, HOSA, DECA, and many more…

TMSA’s academic and competitive teams offer diverse opportunities for students to apply their learning in real-world scenarios, compete at high levels, and develop invaluable skills that will greatly benefit their future academic and professional lives.

TMSA Star League

Unleash your child’s full academic potential with the TMSA Star League, an exceptional advanced preparation program designed to propel students to the pinnacle of excellence in Math, Computer Science, and Physics competitions! Tailored for grades 4-12, this unique program nurtures rigorous intellectual engagement and demands unwavering commitment, impeccable schoolwork, and the cultivation of sophisticated problem-solving skills. Our passionate and experienced teachers guide students toward achieving top scores in prestigious olympiads such as MathCounts, AMC 8, AMC10/12, USACO (USA Computer Olympiads), CyberPatriot, and many others.

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

The TMSA Star League is not your average training program; it’s a launchpad for greatness. By engaging with challenging problems and topics, students develop invaluable skills useful in college and beyond while enhancing their competitiveness in college applications. The program also provides robust training for International Science Olympiads, inspiring students to compete with peers globally.

With an impressive schedule spanning several months, TMSA Star League provides an excellent platform for young minds to interact, collaborate, and compete, all while having fun. Empower your child to achieve their academic dreams with the TMSA Star League.

DISCOVER A WORLD OF SPORTING EXCELLENCE AT TMSA!

Our athletics program offers a wide range of sports to cater to every passion and talent. Join our teams in Cross Country, Volleyball, Women’s Basketball, Men’s Basketball, Tennis, Baseball, Women’s Soccer, Men’s Soccer, Men’s Golf, and many more...

From the thrill of competitive Cross Country races to the strategic plays on the Volleyball court, our teams are driven by dedication, teamwork, and a passion for the game. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or new to the sport, our experienced coaches will guide you towards achieving your full potential.

Embrace the excitement of the game, forge lifelong friendships, and develop valuable skills that extend beyond the field or court. Join us at TMSA and become part of our proud tradition of sporting excellence.

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

EVENTS / ACTIVITIES / CLUBS

At TMSA Public Charter Schools, we believe in fostering a vibrant and inclusive learning environment where students from all walks of life come together to celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures that shape our world. We are thrilled to present our dynamic lineup of school-wide events and celebrations that embody our commitment to multiculturalism, unity, and the joy of learning. Join us as we embark on a thrilling journey of discovery, where our students, staff, and families proudly showcase their diverse heritage and create lasting memories. Our highly anticipated Multi-cultural Festivals stand as a testament to our belief in the transformative power of cultural exchange and understanding.

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

SCIENCE WISDOM PEACE

2,203

3,734

TOTAL NUMBER OF STUDENTS

TMSA’s student demographic exemplifies a rich tapestry of diversity, including different ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, and academic proficiencies.

The school’s commitment to nurturing this diverse community creates an environment that celebrates individuality, promotes cross-cultural understanding, and fosters a strong sense of unity among its students.

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

STUDENT ETHNICITY

762 HIGH SCHOOL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

769 MIDDLE SCHOOL

7.8% 32% 31.4% 16.3% 11.9% More Race Hispanic White

African American Asian

Black and

STUDENT/STAFF RATIO

TOTAL NUMBER OF STAFF

TOTAL NUMBER OF TEACHERS

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO

AVERAGE CLASS SIZE

SCIENCE WISDOM PEACE

24 385 244

FACULTY / STAFF

WHAT MAKES TMSA DIFFERENT

Tuition Free

TMSA is An “Award-winning” tuition-free public Charter School which has been providing high-quality education to the North Carolina for the past 15 years.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE

Discover academic excellence at TMSA Public Charter Schools, an award-winning institution dedicated to providing high-quality education to the North Carolina community for the past 15 years. Our commitment to academic achievement is unwavering, as we strive to foster a nurturing and intellectually stimulating environment for our students. Through a rigorous curriculum and dedicated faculty, we empower our students to reach their full potential and excel in their academic pursuits. Our track record of success is evidenced by the numerous accolades and recognition we have received over the years. At TMSA, we believe in equipping our students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary for their future success. Join us in celebrating 15 years of educational excellence and become a part of our thriving academic community.

TMSA does more with less resources

Small Class Sizes

Small class sizes allow for individual attention and adaptation, creating deeper relationships between teachers and students. Teachers can tailor instruction more individually.

After School Programs

Students have the opportunity to engage in various competitive academic clubs, encompassing math and science olympiads, robotics, leadership, visual arts, music, performing arts, science, technology, and sports.

STEAM Education

TMSA’s rigorous curriculum engages students in cross-disciplinary activities that spark a lifelong love of learning and build knowledge and skills in areas including computer science, engineering, and biomedical science.

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

WHAT WE PROVIDE

TMSA has a 15-year history of putting students first and the academic excellence to foster high quality education.

Safe Learning Environment College Bound

TMSA provides a safe learning environment supported by a diverse community and student body that is dedicated to a rigorous college preparatory and career ready curriculum.

TMSA has created a college preparatory culture which starts at our elementary campuses and germinates throughout a child’s career during middle schools and ripens at our high schools and beyond.

MAP Assessment Expert Staff

Full Day Sessions

MAP is used to measure a student’s academic progress or growth in our school. Our faculty can confidently tailor instruction to challenge every student, whether they are below, at, or above grade level.

TMSA provides full-day sessions of high-quality K-12 education to boost academic gains for students.

Highly Qualified and dedicated teachers are committed to each student’s unique needs and provide an academically rigorous curriculum that prepares students for future success.

SCIENCE WISDOM PEACE

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE & ACHIEVEMENTS

The TMSA Public Charter Schools System takes immense pride in its recognition as a fully accredited institution by Cognia, a leading global network for validating education quality. This accreditation is a prestigious benchmark that confirms the system’s commitment to continuous improvement and exemplary standards in education. With Cognia’s endorsement, the TMSA Public Charter Schools System joins an elite group of educational institutions renowned for their excellence, ensuring its students receive a worldclass education, preparing them for future success.

SCIENCE WISDOM PEACE

Experience a school that goes beyond the classroom at TMSA Public Charter Schools. Our commitment to community involvement sets us apart, offering students countless opportunities to engage with the world around them. Through our strategic partnerships with prestigious universities, we provide a seamless pathway for our students to excel in their academic pursuits. Our internship partners offer hands-on experiences, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and gain invaluable skills. Enriching our curriculum, guest speakers from diverse backgrounds and industries inspire our students with their stories and expertise. And to ignite their career aspirations, we host a vibrant career fair, connecting students with professionals in various fields. At TMSA Public Charter School, we believe in empowering our students to make a difference and thrive in their future endeavors. Join us on this exciting journey of learning, growth, and community engagement.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND PARTNERSHIPS

TMSA PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOLS

FACILITIES AND RESOURCES

TMSA Public Charter School is committed to offering an enriching educational experience within a secure and state-of-the-art infrastructure. Our facilities include modern laboratories and Smart Labs, fostering an immersive, technology-rich environment for scientific exploration and digital literacy development. The well-stocked Media Centers and libraries provide an abundance of books, digital content, and educational resources. Our thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor gathering areas are perfect for collaboration and community engagement. The clean and inviting cafeteria and eating spaces offer students a comfortable place to refuel and unwind. Recognizing the significance of physical health and play, we provide inviting recess areas, a contemporary gymnasium, and comprehensive outdoor sports facilities. To ensure the utmost safety of our students, the school premises are equipped with enhanced security features, including video surveillance and smart door locks, providing an extra layer of protection. All TMSA schools are equipped with the latest technology throughout their facilities, ensuring an innovative teaching and learning environment that keeps pace with the demands of 21st-century education.