Programs
We recognize that no two learners are the same. Here at KMBE, we aim to foster diversity, creativity, acceptance, and growth through an array of programs that are as unique and different as the students who participate in them. Please take some time to explore these pages to discover the right fit for your exceptional child.
Our Learning Programs
Whether your child is interested in art, science, or something else entirely, we’re confident you’ll find something they’ll love and look forward to KMBE. Every learner is equipped with different gifts or skill sets. Our students love to discover their own abilities and interests, and we strive to foster and challenge those talents in a positive and inspiring environment.
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Accelerated Curriculum
Our accelerated curriculum in math and English language arts allows students to learn content at a grade level above their current grade, in addition to maintaining current grade-level standards. We always want your children to feel challenged in their learning environment while also celebrating their achievements. KMBE offers the best of both worlds with a curriculum that both meets students where they are and motivates them to reach even farther.
Gifted Endorsed Educators
In the state of Arizona, educators have the opportunity to obtain endorsements in specialized areas in addition to their standard teaching certificates. All of our teachers receive specialized training and provide gifted services through differentiation within all classrooms.
With a focus on gifted education, our endorsed teachers have put in the extra time and work to ensure that their students receive the best quality education possible. To learn more about the requirements for gifted education endorsements, please visit the Arizona Department of Education or our district’s Gifted Program page.
Leader in Me®
Leader in Me® is based on principles and practices of personal, interpersonal, and organizational effectiveness. Every child possesses unique strengths and has the ability to be a leader. Through this special program, students become self-reliant in all areas of their lives. A few of the skills we focus on include teaching your child to learn the following:
- Take initiative
- Plan ahead
- Set and track goals
- Practice homework diligence
- Prioritize time
- Manage emotions
- Be considerate of others
- Express their viewpoint persuasively
- Resolve conflicts
- Find creative solutions
- Value differences
- Live a balanced life
Leader in Me® at its core helps students develop the skills and self-confidence they need to lead successful lives in school and beyond.
Project Lead the Way
Project Lead the Way (PLTW) is part of STEAM programming. PLTW provides transformative learning experiences in an engaging, hands-on classroom environment that empowers students to develop in-demand knowledge and skills they need to thrive. Projects include the areas of:
- Science and Technology
- Robotics and Engineering
- Mathematics
Project Lead the Way engages students in hands-on activities, projects, and problems. It also empowers them to solve real-world challenges and inspires them to reimagine how they see themselves and the world around them.
STEAM Program
STEAM engages students in hands-on activities, projects, and problems. It also empowers them to solve real-world challenges and inspires them to reimagine how they see themselves and the world around them.
At KMBE we offer:
- Certified art curriculum and ceramics
- SmartLab
- Maker Space
- Project Lead the Way
- 2:1 Chromebooks in every classroom
- Music, band, and general music curriculum
Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID)
AVID is a college and career readiness system aimed at preparing all students for the lives they will lead after graduation.
AVID encompasses instructional best practices that are embedded into daily lesson plans that facilitate rigorous and engaging learning opportunities to build skills, habits, and behaviors in a safe, college, and career-going atmosphere.
Positive Behavioral Intervention System (PBIS)
PBIS is a behavior management system that creates a consistent, predictable, and equitable learning environment for ALL students. By focusing on rewarding good behavior, PBIS has been proven to improve school culture and climate, reduce disruptive behaviors, and measurably support student learning—academically and socially! Students achieve more because less time is spent managing disruptive behaviors.
School Uniforms
School uniforms provide a sense of belonging and pride at Katherine Mecham Barney Elementary. Not having to worry about fashion trends helps students focus on academics and can promote school spirit as well as reduce conflicts among students. School uniforms can also help parents save time and money shopping for school clothes. We will post more details of the dress code as the new school year approaches.
Shirts (We do not require you to embroider them)
- Navy blue polo shirt
- Light blue polo shirt
- White polo shirt
- Pants/Shorts
Pants/Shorts/Dress
- Navy blue dress pants/shorts
- Khaki dress pants/shorts
- Rompers/skirts/uniform dress
- Navy blue skirt/romper/uniform dress
- Khaki skirt/romper/uniform dress
- Light blue uniform dress
You can purchase school uniform items at stores such as Old Navy, JCPenney, Walmart, Target.
Clubs
- Battle of the Books
- Choir
- Coding
- Lead Out Loud
- Lighthouse Club
- NEHS
- Principal Advisory
- Running Club
- Student Council
- Cheer Club
Before and After School Care
Discovery Kids, our on-site before- and after-school program, is licensed to provide quality learning enrichment activities for our Bobcat families. Please visit our district Community Education page for more details, or you can sign up online.
