Too often, it's what's not working in public schools that grabs the headlines or the spotlight.
Today, though, at AWB's Legislative Day education panel, it was all about what is working -- and why we need to do more of it. The panel was moderated by AWB Education Committee Chair Natalie McNair-Huff of True Blue, Inc. and sponsored by K12 Virtual Academies.
Representatives from Tacoma's Science and Math Institute (SAMI) and the Delta High School in Richland shared with AWB members how they've been successful in moving students of all backgrounds and education levels to success in their unique schools.
SAMI, a partnership between Tacoma Public Schools and Tacoma Metro Parks that began in 2009, capitalizes on one of the state's largest parks (Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium), as well as partnerships with local universities, to help students focus on science and mathematics through experiential learning. The school is modeled after the district's other successful innovative school, the Tacoma School of the Arts. Students apply during their eighth-grade year to attend SAMI. School days are a little longer, and students are encouraged to apply for internships, participate in seminars and travel regionally or internationally, as part of the school's focus on applied learning.
Jon Ketler, principal of Stewat Middle School, spoke to the progam's power to catpture the attention of students for who school and/or homeowrk is not a priority at home, or for whom traditional K-12 environments have not been successful.
"How do you get those students engaged in their own educational experience? That's the question," said Ketler. "As the adults, we have to help them see those learning opportunities that they may not have."
The Delta High School, a joint partnership of the Richland, Pasco and Kennetwick school districts, was developed around the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The school relies heavily on partnerships with area businesses and government entities -- such as Batelle and Pacific Northwest National Labs -- to provide professional guidance, mentors and advisors.
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