STARSHINE believes that a holistic approach to education is the best way to educate a child and ultimately improve the world. We focus on mind, body, spirit, health, wealth, and happiness. The world will be saved by growing the unique talents of every child. Our teachers support emerging talents with inspiration, admiration and encouragement. By focusing in on a child’s uniqueness, we can individualize this holistic approach for maximum results.

STARSHINE helps students, teachers, and volunteers find and grow their highest and best use. Everyone can and must make a unique contribution. STARSHINE believes that when individuals are supported and their unique abilities celebrated, they become more respectful of others' unique abilities. They begin to recognize that the world is a big place, full of possibilities, as well as responsibilities. The seed of greatness that is born in every person, when nurtured and explored, creates an enthusiasm for living which causes each person to search, find, and live their destiny. Abilities and desires are unique, just like fingerprints. When a person is supported to explore these unique abilities they become excited about their own future. Our world benefits from this excitement in every area.

At STARSHINE, we use a diverse approach to inspire and educate children:

Our Peace Work helps students to understand how to live in a more peaceful and powerful way through personal integrity and accountability. STARSHINE teaches positive negotiation techniques. Each year STARSHINE celebrates the 11 Days of Peace and Sustainability as well as the International Day of Peace. Also, the United Nations Millennium Goals, along with our partnership with Arizona Department of Peace, supplies us with guidance and support for goal setting and teaching our students about creating peace in our own communities and the wider world.

At STARSHINE, each student is an ambassador to another country. Since STARSHINE’S inception we have had a focus on International Studies as well as global issues. We have invited international visitors including foreign dignitaries and ambassadors, business leaders and entrepreneurs, peace workers, and students. We have enjoyed visitors from as far away as Cyprus, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Ukraine, China, and the list goes on. We are proud to announce that we have recently joined Oprah Winfrey’s O Ambassadors program.

STARSHINE’S garden provides hands-on experience in environmental science. This 'living laboratory' teaches students about social concepts such as bio-sustainable living and provides a sense of accomplishment through community cooperation. We teach about soil amendment, composting, and organic pest control. Providing access to a garden in an urban environment benefits the community in many ways. The garden also teaches team work and respect.

STARSHINE’S curriculum leverages the power of technology. We provide personalized Individual Learning Plans (ILP’s) that incorporate a student's dream job as well as the requirements needed for graduation. By using computer-based learning platforms for each student and powerful tools for teachers to meet tough standards and measure progress, high school students in particular can work at their own pace to achieve their goals. Younger students benefit from the ILP and computer based learning as well. STARSHINE also uses digital storytelling to incorporate technology into the classroom.

Every STARSHINE student learns about economics and financial management starting in kindergarten. Using books and games developed by Rich Dad, Poor Dad, students are taught to be financially literate and given powerful tools in order to succeed. In addition to these tools, all high school students participate in business internships to help them develop real-world skills.

If you would like to learn more about STARSHINE’S unique approach, please feel free to contact us.