Academics

At SPA, we strive to provide an educational experience that meets the needs of each student. We understand that each student is different and we are dedicated to helping them reach their educational goals in the most effective way possible. We offer specialized instruction, unique courses in the arts and academics, and small class sizes, making SPA the perfect choice for those looking for a personalized educational experience.

SPA meets or exceeds the Utah CORE standards in all of our classes. Utah's CORE Standards can be found here: https://www.uen.org/core/

FAQs about Academics at SPA

  • Yes! We hold SPA students to high academic standards, requiring all students to maintain their academic performance while they participate in shows, conservatories, and extracurricular activities.

  • Yes. We have begun offering concurrent enrollment classes for college credit at SPA as well. Please reach out to our school counseling team to further discuss the wide variety of academic opportunities that SPA has to offer.

  • SPA students have access to a variety of athletic opportunities through their local district school. As a student who attends a public charter school, they have the ability to participate in district extracurriculars. If you have more questions, please reach out to your counselor to learn more.

  • Yes, we do! As a public charter school, SPA is in compliance with the requirements outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and provides a rich and differentiated experience for students with these requirements and needs.

  • Yes, they can! We offer specialized instruction in academics and the arts in small class sizes making SPA a great choice for those looking for an academically strong, arts-integrated education experience.

What Makes Academics at SPA Unique

  • Small Class Sizes

  • Unique Course Offerings

  • Specialized Instruction for Student Needs

SPA's Individualized Learning Program...

  • Provides high-quality courses in academics and the arts for all students;

  • Utilizes the power and scalability of technology to customize education so that students may learn in their own style preference and at their own pace;

  • Provides certified content area educator professionals to teach core classes;

  • Provides success coaches to support students’ success and academics via our Learning Labs;

  • Provides arts-integrated curriculum in order to support academic growth, as well as fulfill the mission of SPA

  • Provides quality-learning options to better prepare students for post-secondary education and career opportunities.

Meet the Team

  • (801) 466-6700 ext 122

    srobinson@saltlakespa.org

  • Shelby is excited to embark on their first year as a Special Education teacher. Their journey into education began during the pandemic, working as a paraeducator. It was in this role that Shelby discovered a deep passion for teaching and realized their calling to support diverse learners.

    With a newfound dedication to Special Education, Shelby is eager to create an inclusive and nurturing classroom environment where every student can thrive. They look forward to collaborating with families and colleagues to ensure a year of growth, learning, and success for all students.

Tina Gillman

  • (801) 466-6700 ext

    tgillman@saltlakespa.org

  • Tina Gillman earned degrees from Utah State University and the University of Utah and spent 18 years in urban planning and design before making a career shift to teaching by completing a Master of Arts in Teaching degree at Westminster College. She holds licenses in both landscape architecture, a federally designated STEM field, and secondary education. She believes in the power of arts education to allow students to achieve their full potential in their artistic craft as well as in academic pursuits. Tina is excited about working with students at SPA to grow their math skills and understanding.

  • (801) 466-6700 ext 120

    tdavis@saltlakespa.org

  • I began teaching as adjunct faculty for Salt Lake Community College. After subbing a few high school classes, I knew I wanted to teach high school English. I have been teaching for nine years and am excited for more. I focus most on writing skills because they are the most transferable and useful in the world. Someone who can explain their ideas to another can mold their lives to fit their own vision better. This is my first year at SPA, and I am focused on leading students to practice thinking, reading, and writing skills that can compliment the arts education they are receiving.

  • (801) 466-6700 ext

    wgayle@saltlakespa.org