For instance, students who attend school near the Mississippi could study the river's plant and animal life instead of reading about it in a biology textbook. Projects could include testing water quality or advocating for a river protection policy. Character development, high academic standards and community involvement are key elements of this model. Professional development sessions also are built around expeditions, such as science teachers enrolling in an eight-day sea kayaking excursion to develop a marine biology curriculum. Low-level courses are often eliminated.
Teachers align their lessons to high standards.
The model requires an 80 percent approval vote from teachers before it can be launched. School Development Program Teachers and parents have significant input and decision-making powers in school restructuring. Students have the opportunity to forge strong relationships with adults in school and in the community. For Cleveland Schools. Mario Ortiz contributed to this report.