Our Enrichment Programs
Enriching every Carpenter Cougar through music, movement, science, art, and creativity.
Carpenter Community Charter is dedicated to providing an enriched learning experience for every student, and Parents for Carpenter (PFC) is proud to help make that possible.
Through the generous support of our families and community, PFC provides funding for our exceptional enrichment and class-size reduction programs that enhance and improve the educational opportunities for each and every child.
MUSIC
PFC funding makes possible school-wide participation in a comprehensive music program. Led by the dynamic Neusha Taherian, this enrichment program introduces students to music history, singing, music appreciation, movement, rhythm, and instrumental instruction, helping every Carpenter Cougar develop a lifelong appreciation for music.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Our physical education program meets all federal, state, and LAUSD-mandated standards and offers every Carpenter student 30 minutes of physical education each week. These popular classes are led by Coach Miles Haddad, who works with students to teach sports rules, techniques, sportsmanship, personal physiology, self-esteem, and health.
DANCE & MOVEMENT
Our Dance & Movement program is led by the amazing Paola Acevedo. Her dynamic program fills a portion of the Physical Education requirements while also meeting the standards for arts curriculum as set forth in the LAUSD standards. She emphasizes movement, stretching, and traditional dances, and she is also the production coordinator for our school holiday performances.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DANCE & MOVEMENT
SCIENCE
PFC funding allows Josselyn Pacheco to work with all grades TK–5. The classroom science curriculum is reinforced with hands-on experiments that take place in the science lab, our outdoor science space, and our garden. This opportunity to work on science projects has been embraced by our students, staff, and district.
ART
PFC's Art enrichment program, led by Lisa Thomas, introduces students to art history, creative expression, and artistic techniques that complement classroom learning. Students develop imagination, confidence, observation skills, and fine motor skills while exploring a variety of artistic styles and media.
RESTORATIVE JUSTICE
Mrs. Easley's focus is on fostering community and making connections through restorative practices. She works with students to strengthen interpersonal skills and conflict resolution both inside and outside the classroom, and collaborates closely with the school staff to implement School-Wide Positive Behavior Intervention and Support. Mrs. Easley also facilitates The Builders Club, a social and emotional support group for students in grades 3 through 5, meeting weekly to promote positive behavior.
CLASS DOWNSIZING AND INTERVENTION SPECIALIST
PFC funding supports an intervention teacher, Carissa Larsen, who works with small groups of students for language arts and math, helping to ensure students are learning grade-level standards. Students universally benefit from an enhanced teacher-to-student ratio during the pullout period. Mrs. Larsen also supports our EL students and assists with assessments.