Discovery Charter

Discovery Charter is one of more than 1,700 charter schools nationwide established to promote innovation in public education. Each school adopts its own educational philosophy. At Discovery Charter, the curriculum features basic skills mandated by the State Board of Education but the students learn how these skills apply to real life careers through the exploration of sewing, weaving, horticulture, mechanical engineering, architecture, multi-media technology, and other areas of specialty.

The progressive nature of Discovery Charter is a direct reflection of its co-founders and co-leaders, Barbara G. Weiland and Irene Hall. An educator for more than 30 years, Ms. Weiland says she's never taught anything the same way twice. "I believe in the discovery method of teaching where kids use their own innate talents to understand the world around them. They learn by asking and pursuing their own questions," she says.

Opening its doors for the first time in 1999, the Discovery Charter School already has a waiting list. While the school itself is new to the Newark community, it's innovative, hand-on teaching style has long benefited local schools through KIDS-IN-BUSINESS®, which was started in 1987 to better prepare students for the workplace. Since then hundreds of children, K-12, have explored the working world, including making and selling products such as calendars, greeting cards and other handmade items. (Proceeds are donated to local charities.) Today KIDS -IN-BUSINESS® programs are also key components to Discovery Charter's curriculum. In addition, KIDS IN BUSINESS® continues to operate as an outreach program to other local schools and community centers.