About
Explore Knowledge Academy of Public SpeakingOur Founder
Achieving Excellence Together
Dr. Joan Sando, a true pioneer in Nevada’s charter school movement, founded Explore Knowledge Academy of Public Speaking (EKAPS) to provide families in Southern Nevada with a one-of-a-kind educational experience. EKAPS received its charter approval in April 2002 with a vision rooted in Personalized Education and Challenging Minds.
At EKAPS, teachers, students, parents, and community members work together to develop confident, capable leaders through 21st-century instructional practices and the integration of modern technology. To support real-world learning and student engagement, EKAPS provides iPads or Chromebooks for all students from kindergarten through twelfth grade for use on campus.
Our Facilities
We Are Providing an Environment for Our Students to Grow & Excel
EKAPS provides a learning environment that supports the academic, social, and emotional growth of all students. Our campus is designed to foster collaboration, communication, and engagement while maintaining high academic standards.
Through strong partnerships between parents, students, teachers, and staff, we create a supportive school culture focused on student success. Our facilities are intentionally structured to meet the needs of diverse learners and to encourage participation, responsibility, and leadership.
Our Instructional Model
Learning Environment and Public Speaking
EKAPS is not a traditional school setting. Our classrooms are created using walls and dividers that form structured learning pods within larger instructional spaces. This model promotes collaboration, peer engagement, and real-world communication skills. While this design may include background noise, students are supported in developing focus, adaptability, and presentation skills within this environment.
Public speaking is a core component of the EKAPS educational model. All students are required to participate in public speaking activities as part of their academic program, including students supported through an IEP or 504 Plan, with appropriate accommodations provided as outlined in their plan. These experiences build confidence, leadership, and communication skills essential for future success.
Our elementary program follows a middle school–style instructional model, with students rotating between classes and working with up to eight different teachers throughout the day. This structure supports academic growth, independence, and organization. Students are placed in classes based on academic readiness, which may include above-grade-level coursework when appropriate. No elementary student is placed in coursework below their age-appropriate grade level.
At EKAPS, students are given both the tools and the community support needed to grow academically, socially, and as confident leaders.
Our Vision
Teaching the Professionals of tomorrow
All elementary courses include comprehensive core reading and language arts curriculum. Mathematics including Numbers and Operations; Measurement; Geometry; Patterns, Algebra, and Probability; Problem Solving, Science – Science themes are covered through a combination of hands on and direct instruction. Social Studies themes including topics on developing an understanding of how.
Every sixth-grade student will be enrolled in three CORE classes (English, mathematics, and science). Physical Education, computer literacy, and an elective will also be required. Students will be placed in classes according to teacher recommendations and their most recent achievement test results. Daily practice in the form of homework and/or home study may be required each night in each subject and should be expected. Teachers are available on a daily basis before and/or after school to assist students.
Please see the High School Course Description Page for more information.