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This presentation discusses the critical need for increased high school options within Spokane Public Schools. With a significant number of students choosing to leave or drop out, it explores alternative learning experiences (ALE) that cater to diverse learner needs. The overview emphasizes personalized education, emphasizes community connections, and highlights innovative programs like The Community School and On Track Academy. By tailoring educational experiences to student interests and challenges, this initiative aims to improve engagement, retention, and prepare students for future success.
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Increasing High School Optionsin Spokane Public Schools School Board Presentation August 11, 2010
Why do we need more HS options? 9th – 12th Student Exit Data 2009-2010 538 Students ‘Choiced’ Out of SPS 732 Students ‘Dropped’ Out of SPS 1270 Total left SPS High Schools
What is ALE? WAC 392-121-182: Alternative Learning Experience An alternative learning experience may be counted as a course of study. . . ALE may be provided in whole or part, outside the regular classroom setting, including those learning experiences provided digitally via the internet or other electronic means.
ALE Program Requirements • Written student learning plan (WSLP) • Learning goals and objectives aligned with state standards • Course syllabus part of the WSLP • Instructional materials aligned to state standards • Evaluation methods explicit in student’s plan • Student performance supervised and evaluated by certificated staff • Must have at least weekly contact with teacher • Monthly progress monitoring
Options at the Havermale Campus On Track Academy Contract-Based Education MedicineWheel Academy The Community School
Engaging the Disengaged Reasons students drop out/choice out • Students don’t see relevance in what is taught – ‘school is boring’ • Lack of voice – ‘not being heard’ – teacher-directed • The academic challenge is too low or too high • Don’t feel connected to large comprehensive high school – ‘anonymous’ and ‘invisible’ • Life circumstances that seem insurmountable
The Evolution of Havermale 2006 – Began a three year school improvement • Personalized school climate that welcomes discouraged learners -- student voice (Advisory) • Engaging classroom instruction • Twice-yearly Student Led Conferences • Community College connections • Strong PLC focused on continuous improvement Next step – More intentional approach to learning that is unique, challenging, and relevant
The Community School • Our Mission • Individually Focused • Rigorous Authentic Learning • Connected to the Community
Focus on the Three R’s • Individual Student Learning Plans • targeted to standards • Performance-based assessment • through Exhibitions of Learning • Project-Based Learning that • incorporates service learning • Connected to Spokane businesses • and organizations (inquiry based) • Personalized learning culture - • Small is good! • Strengthened relationship with • families, community mentors
Support/Resources Support/Resources • SPS Instructional Programs • Coalition of Essential Schools • Small Schools Project/CES NW – Katy Karschney • Wings Digital ALE Software - Ann Gragert • Community Advisory Committee
Conclusion • Clear, intentional design of high school options will increase graduation rates. • High school options offer student and parent ‘choice,’ addressing the unique needs and interests of each learner. • Students will be better prepared for college, careers, and contribution to the community.