#USA #Arkansas #ATLAS #Rogers #School for Advanced Studies

School for Advanced Studies Northwest Arkansas Surpasses State Averages

The School for Advanced Studies Northwest Arkansas (SAS NWA) has made an impressive mark in its first year by significantly surpassing the state averages in the ATLAS assessment results. This public charter school, which offers tuition-free education to middle and high school students, proudly serves the Rogers community, providing an enriching learning environment by fusing rigorous academics with engaging, inquiry-based instruction.

Founded in August 2024 and located in the historic Lane Hotel, SAS NWA operates on a commitment to student achievement through deep inquiry and seminar-style discussions. The curriculum caters to diverse talents and interests, incorporating robust coursework across language, visual arts, music, and drama, along with ample service learning opportunities.

Noteworthy Assessment Results

The ATLAS assessment conducted by the Arkansas Department of Education aims to evaluate the competencies of students statewide in their academic journey. At SAS NWA, the results astonishly indicate that 75% of students achieved Level Three or Level Four in English Language Arts (ELA), which is a striking 41% higher than the state average of 34%. Such high performance benchmarks were particularly pronounced among seventh and ninth graders where 84% and 92% achieved these levels, respectively.

Mathematics assessments revealed that 70% of SAS NWA students achieved advanced performance levels, over double the state's average. Specifically, sixth-grade students achieved an extraordinary 88% at Levels Three or Four compared to only 40% statewide. Equally impressive was the performance in Algebra I, where 67% of students reached advanced benchmarks against a mere 31% for the state.

In the area of Science, SAS NWA students also excelled, with 77% achieving Level Three or Four—significantly outperforming the state average of 38%, indicating a 39% differential that underscores the school's effective teaching methods and curriculum.

Comparisons with Other Institutions

In rankings by advanced rate performance, SAS NWA stood out as one of Arkansas' top-performing schools. The school earned several distinctions:

• - Ranked #1 in ELA Advanced rates for both seventh and tenth grades.
• - Ranked #1 in Math Advanced rates for sixth grade.
• - Ranked #4 in Science Advanced rates across the state.
• - Ranked #9 for Advanced rates overall in Math.
• - Ranked #10 in ELA advanced performance statewide.

These accolades highlight SAS NWA’s commitment to not only achieve high academic standards but also provide a holistic educational experience that prepares students for future academic and career pursuits.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Peter Bezanson, Co-Chairman of BASIS Educational Ventures, remarked, “You don’t have to be a genius to enter SAS, but you will be ready to achieve at globally competitive levels when you leave us to attend a top tier college!” The school is designed to be inclusive, embracing a diverse student body from various socioeconomic backgrounds. The open-enrollment policy furthers its mission by welcoming students regardless of their academic starting points, ensuring a rich learning atmosphere.

Moreover, Head of School Jennifer Higgins states, “Our very first year’s ATLAS results confirm what our school community already knows—SAS NWA students, teachers, and families are dedicated to high achievement and a culture of intellectual curiosity.” This dedication reflects in students’ achievements that represent a culmination of a year-long commitment to skill building, knowledge acquisition, and confidence development.

Tailored Academic Pathways

SAS NWA offers tailored academic concentrations in Fine Arts, Humanities, or Math and Science. This model not only allows the students to delve deeper into their interests but also equips them with advanced skills corresponding to their chosen fields of study. This unique educational framework is geared towards building a community of learners passionate about their education.

Enrollment for the 2025–26 school year is now open, inviting interested students and families to apply and learn more at schoolsforadvancedstudies.org.

About the School

The School for Advanced Studies Northwest Arkansas is a tuition-free public charter school starting from grade five, specifically located in Rogers, AR. Following a curriculum intended to mirror the college experience, combined with a culture encouraging intellectual curiosity, SAS NWA sets itself apart with its ambitious and student-centered educational environment with no barriers to enrollment.