Systems-level transformation.
Local-level solutions.
We believe that seat time, reductive competencies, and test scores are inadequate, inequitable measures systems for the bigger change that is needed. That’s why our work focuses on better connecting underserved and nontraditional students to college and careers. Our communities cannot withstand the squandering of our most precious assets signified by the growing number of disengaged young people with nothing to do and nowhere to go.

OUR INITIATIVES
OUR PROJECTS
MORE ABOUT THE THREE-PILLAR MODEL

Pillar 1.
Learning by Doing
This is a form of project-based learning where students use problem solving to address real-world problems in their own communities. Learning by doing promotes deep thinking and problem solving skills, and develops nuanced lifelong learning skills. This pillar also opens opportunities for a mastery-based system where students demonstrate their learning through a variety of assessments as opposed to traditional grading. Rather than focus on coverage and seat time, learning by doing shifts the focus onto skill development through responsive, personalized curriculum.
Pillar 2.
Community Engagement
Reciprocal relationships with the community are the foundation of a well-connected school with future pathways for its students. Community Engagement directly informs schools and their curriculum so that communities become more connected, integrated and better places to live. Young people have a chance to lead when they are engaged in the community which is an essential youth development strategy and preparation for them to become the leaders we need.
Pillar 3.
Student Support
Support is focused on treating young people as assets to be nurtured rather than problems to be solved. This pillar is about building a school culture that both promotes high academic expectations and an environment that is intellectually and emotionally safe for students. The power of the model is realized when the pillars converge, resulting in schools that adapt to the needs of students rather than the other way around.