Independence High School 2017-2018 Innovation Awards

Independence serves a diverse group of students, many of whom have not found success in traditional models of school. Although the alternative model is more responsive, much work needs to be done in preparing their students for post-high school success, especially as the school continues to struggle with the issue of chronic absenteeism. In addition, only about 55% of their students graduate in four years. The design team is exploring how curriculum affects chronic absenteeism and graduation rates and whether the mindsets of Deeper Learning (master core content, think critically, communicate effectively, work collaboratively, learn how to learn, develop learning mindsets) could prepare their students for life after high school.