:: Curricula: The core curriculum is providing students with a rigorous program of studies in the areas of mathematics , science , social studies , and language arts . The school has  high expectations of all students, and develop and monitor individual plans for them;

:: Attitudes: Reinforcement of productive attitudes toward work, community, school, friends, and self; a willingness to sacrifice for the common good, as well as for personal fulfillment; deep respect for family, school and community; and the capacity to appreciate the opportunities life offers;

:: Individual attention: The importance and abilities of each individual student is a focal point at all times. Each and every student at HSA is regarded as a unique, valued and vital member of the school community;

:: Participation: Community service is embedded through the curriculum to perpetuate constructive participation by students, parents, staff, and citizens in the life of the school and the community and directly carry the school experience into the real world, through higher education, work, family, community and civic affairs;

:: Reform and accountability: At HSA, education reform is the initiating and guiding principle, with excellence as a standard, as well as the goales, the school must achieve to remain in business. Accountability is clear: just as business must adapt itself to new technologies, new demands from its consumers, and the invention of new or the obsolescence of old products to thrive, so must education.

Priorities and policy discussions focus on the students. Teachers lead in every sector. Parents and students will be expected to volunteer their time, and participate from the beginning in programs and policy development, including a dress code, code of conduct, cultivation of a healthy and respectful atmosphere in the school, and selection of exploration programs. Students and staff participate in regular HSA Meetings and assemblies as a crucial component in the development of school government.

HSA is committed to modeling new ways of returning tax and private dollars to the classroom keeping overhead costs at a minimal level so that at least three-fourth of total expenditures be at the classroom level. HSA addresses social issues such as drugs, violence, and health at an age appropriate level, through the prism of community service learning techniques.

In order to support all school families, the school is open from 7:45 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., with academic hours from 8:15 a.m. until 2:13 p.m. (These hours may be adjusted based on need.) Recognizing the enormous stresses of modern life, families are supported in contributing to the success of their children's education in a manner that enhances family life. The school stresses an atmosphere of trust, safety, structure, open communication, and ownership through use of community service learning, class meetings, assemblies, workshops, community open houses, student performances, and student/teacher/parent   goal setting and assessments. The Horizon Science Academy is directly accountable to the people of Cleveland just as in any business.