Skip to content
3-5 Academy

Curiosity sparked.
Foundations built. Confidence found.

Empowering students to ignite their passions and build the confidence to thrive. At Horizon, we partner with families so learning at home can be joyful, flexible, and well-supported. With virtual classes, field trips & park days, and ongoing guidance, your child grows with confidence from the start.

  • 100% tuition-free public school
  • Credentialed, expert teacher support
  • Flexible learning built around your child
  • Enrichment opportunities fostering exploration

Flexible & Inspiring, Tuition-Free Learning for Grades 3-5

The HCS 3-5 Academy blends the flexibility of home-based learning with the expert support of credentialed teachers. Our 100% tuition-free public school provides a nurturing environment where personalized paths spark curiosity and build a lasting foundation for every student.

Since 1993, Horizon has partnered with families across Northern California to deliver student-centered education aligned to California state standards.

Why Families Choose Horizon for 3-5

Imagine a learning journey where expert teachers and parents work hand in hand to spark your child’s wonder and build their inner confidence. Horizon’s 3–5 Academy brings learning to life beyond the four walls of a classroom, trading rigid desks for meaningful experiences like hands-on field trips and joyful community events. We’re here to support you at every turn, providing the warm connection and academic expertise your child needs to grow into a happy, motivated, and well-rounded learner.

What Learning Looks Like in the
3–5 Academy

Every student in the 3–5 Academy follows a personalized learning plan designed around their academic needs, interests, strengths, and pace, while staying aligned to California standards. This flexible approach helps students build confidence, self-esteem, and stronger academic skills, while encouraging critical thinking, meaning-making, and a positive identity as a learner. By connecting instruction to student interests, Horizon helps students engage more deeply in meaningful, hands-on learning.

Instruction focuses on:
  • Math instruction based on student thinking
  • Building reading comprehension & fluency
  • Writing skills - confidence & skill with regular feedback
  • Discovering interests and following curiosity
Young student smiling in an art museum while holding a clipboard, engaged in a learning activity with framed artwork displayed behind her.

Expert Teacher Support for the Elementary Years

In Horizon’s 3–5 Academy, families are supported by a credentialed, experienced Supervising Teacher who helps guide learning, provide accountability, and offers ongoing encouragement throughout the year. With personalized support and regular live instruction, students strengthen academic skills, build confidence, and stay connected to a caring school community.

Support includes:
  • A dedicated and experienced Supervising Teacher
  • Weekly homeroom connections
  • Small-group, live English language arts & math support classes
  • Engaging live enrichment classes
  • Live social-emotional learning classes
teacher standing at front of classroom pointing at white board explaining concept to students

Enrichment, Socialization & Learning Beyond the Home

Horizon provides families with instructional funds to support high-quality learning experiences beyond core academics.

Students may participate in:
  • Enrichment classes and workshops
  • Physical education and movement activities
  • Field trips and hands-on learning
  • In-person meet-up and learning activity opportunities
  • 200+ approved community enrichment partners

"Horizon helped my child connect with other kids and make some of her best friends through clubs, and the staff truly take time to know your child and care about what matters to your family. If you want a school that supports you 100%, Horizon is a wonderful fit."

yellow horizon logo in a blue circle background

Rebecca

Parent & Home Educator

What Does a Typical Week Look Like?

Learning in the 3-5 Academy is flexible but structured. Families guide learning at home using Horizon-approved curriculum while teachers provide planning support and accountability.

Here’s what personalized learning can look like for your child:

3–5 Academy

MONDAY

  • Homeroom
  • Book Club
  • Visual Art Activity
  • Finish coursework

TUESDAY

  • Reading/Writing
  • Math
  • Science
  • Vendor Dance Class

WEDNESDAY

  • Reading/Writing 
  • Math
  • Social Studies 
  • Karate

THURSDAY

  • Reading/Writing
  • Math
  • Science
  • Lego Club

FRIDAY

  • Reading/Writing
  • Math
  • Park Day
  • Family Outings

NOTE: Schedules vary by student. These are examples of how families personalize learning.

Hear from Horizon students and families.

"Choosing Horizon has been one of the best decisions for our child’s education. The flexibility lets him learn at his own pace, with expert teachers and staff who truly know and care about him. We love the personalized learning and strong family-school partnership."

yellow horizon logo in a blue circle background
Kristina
Parent & Home Educator

"Horizon helped our family transition from public school to a flexible homeschool charter. As new homeschoolers, we appreciated the patient guidance from knowledgeable teachers and staff who helped us find the right path for each child. Our 4th grader and kindergartner have wonderful teachers, and we love seeing them at Horizon events. We’re so happy we joined Horizon!"

yellow horizon logo in a blue circle background
Giovanna Bencomo
Parent & Home Educator

"Horizon’s flexibility has been a lifesaver for our family while juggling school and a toddler. The teachers are compassionate, highly skilled, and truly invested in their students. Their guidance has made a meaningful difference for our child and our family."

yellow horizon logo in a blue circle background
Shaylene Herbert
Parent & Home Educator

"I highly recommend Horizon for its flexible learning options that truly fit a child’s needs and pace. The teachers are knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely caring. Horizon’s strong partnership with families makes learning effective and empowering."

yellow horizon logo in a blue circle background
Meghanne Williams
Parent & Home Educator

FAQs

Yes. Horizon Charter Schools is a free, publicly funded charter school (TK–12).

Ready to take the next step?

Whether you’re ready to enroll or need a bit more information, we’re here for you.

Begin Enrollment

Get started today with our online enrollment process or reach an enrollment technician.

Or call 916-408-5210

Get More Info

Join an upcoming info session via Zoom or contact a Family Mentor Teacher with questions about our programs.