• Paradigm High School, Riverton, 9-12 — PHS is a liberal arts charter school, seeking to build a solid foundation in the core fields of language, literature, history, science, mathematics and the fine arts. Students will study the masters and source documents of each course, and employ the proven methods of Socratic discussion, multiple modes of learning, hands-on project applications and individual mentoring to build the higher-order skills of analysis, computation, comparison and proficiency in reading, writing and speaking. Information at www.paradigmhigh.com.

• Renaissance Academy, Alpine, K-8 — The academy will bring the spirit of enlightenment of the Renaissance era and the modern information age together to help students see significance and connectedness in all subjects, giving place for curiosity to translate into contribution. The curriculum will emphasize the sciences and fine arts. Foreign language begins in kindergarten, with multiple choices available in grades 6-8 as part of the International Baccalaureate Program. Information at www.renacademy.org.

• Salt Lake School of Performing Arts, Salt Lake City, 9-12 — This school — still pending final approval by Salt Lake City School District — will be located next to Highland High. Focusing on music, theater and dance, it will prepare students to enter conservatories. It aims to give students a head start into their professions in performing arts and enable them to have a resume when they graduate. The school will partner with Highland High for core classes. For more information call Dorothy Cosgrove at 578-8599.

• Spectrum Academy, Kaysville, K-8 — Sponsors say this is the first tuition-free school that uses research-based teaching methods to teach children with Asperger's syndrome, high-functioning autism, communication disorders and sensory integration disorders. The academy will be specifically designed for children who are faced with challenges related to socialization, communicative development, peer relations and sensory integration dysfunction. Information at www.spectrumacademy.org.

• Syracuse Arts Academy, Syracuse, K-6 — The academy will expose students to visual and performing arts at a young age and will integrate arts into all areas of the curriculum. It aims to develop respectful, confident citizens through utilizing an educational environment enriched by artistic expression. For information e-mail cdallin@davischamberofcommerce.com.