But now it seems as if everybody has been lifted up. The numbers bear out his perception. And SAT scores have held steadily above state and national averages, although more students are taking them now. Students say they appreciate the variety of methods teachers now use to coach all kids towards higher expectations. Instead, at tables and chairs grouped around the room students work together on one of four separate unit projects, with the teacher moving quietly from one to another.
Several kids gravitate to a raised carpeted platform that extends into the room as a kind of stage.
At one station, a student with reading difficulties can listen with headphones to Sartre's No Exit on tape while the others read it in print. College Coursework for Some Chatham's courses have also become more demanding for those who have traditionally succeeded in academics. During his junior year, for example, Paul Flint put together a comprehensive economic history of the Ford Motor Company, complete with graphs, charts, and model cars. They weren't used to making mistakes and taking risks as part of learning. At the same time, she adds, some kids are now succeeding who had never before had the experience of excellence.