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Bay View Academy Lower

Community - Innovation - Passion

Mission & History

Mission & History

Mission

We build strong, collaborative relationships to fuel a diverse, inclusive community committed to lifelong learning.

Bay View Academy (BVA) is a public, independent TK-8 charter school, free and open to all students. BVA was initially authorized by the Monterey County Office of Education in 2011.

Founded on the core principles of community, innovation, and a passion for learning, BVA offers a broad academic program using thematic-based instruction.

Enrichment offerings include physical education, art, music, and performing arts and 3D design.

A group of people work together outdoors, possibly on a project.

Our Vision

Empowered global citizens building meaningful lives and community.

BVA teachers develop and teach lessons that go beyond state standards. Each unit of study connects the standards to an inquiry question that helps engage students and connect their learning to the world around them. Bay View Academy addresses more than the state standards through these units of study, ensuring that students are also fully connecting with the Social Justice Standards.

In addition, Bay View Academy’s community partnership philosophy flourishes, with a multitude of off-site field trips enhancing our students’ educational experience and building stronger relationships with the people and places in our community. 

By focusing on differentiation in the classroom, we have continued to work towards closing the achievement gap, and meeting the needs of all of our diverse learners. Students at Bay View Academy are able to be themselves.  We offer flexible seating, academic support and social emotional support.  Students are expected to learn in the way that best supports their learning, not always being expected to learn the exact way of those around them.

At Bay View Academy, we intentionally and consistently implement Restorative Practices to uphold our core values and foster a strong, inclusive community. These practices empower all members, students and adults alike, to take responsibility for their actions, repair harm through meaningful dialogue, and restore trust. Our approach promotes peace, empathy, mutual respect, and cultural awareness, ensuring that every child and adult in our community has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.

Our Community Support Counselors support student social-emotional growth and development by teaching social-emotional skills during classroom lessons, providing mental health counseling for students and resources for families. Our counselors work with small groups of students and individuals providing them with skills to navigate the complexities of collaborative learning, individual accomplishments, and peer relationships.

Testimonials

What Parents are Saying

“Our children thrive in Bay View’s well-rounded approach to education. They’ve grown immensely through the school’s exceptional art programs, its rigorous academic curriculum, and the emphasis on real-world experiences. From interning with the Seaside City Council to participating in meaningful community volunteer opportunities, Bay View students are encouraged to engage with the world around them in thoughtful, impactful ways. The field trips have also been unforgettable, bringing learning to life outside the classroom, a definite highlight for each of the kids that attend. BVA is an asset to Monterey County and to our children.”

 

Micah Howell

“Bay View Academy Charter School has been an amazing experience for my 3rd grader! In Kindergarten he learned emotional self regulation techniques as well as reading, writing, science, and math. Learning Centers have allowed him to progress past grade level skills with support in a smaller group setting. He has learned to be a global citizen and thinker. Staff has been supportive and kind and have helped him grow his social skills. We love Bay View!”

Stefanie Durich-Beck

“Thank you BAY VIEW ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOL staff for the care and commitment to our future leaders!!!!”

 

James Velarde