Open Optional: Learning for Life

"My daughters have been part of Chinook’s Open Optional program from kindergarten to 6th grade, and after nine years at this school, it feels like a second home. The teachers are creative, intelligent, and passionate about learning. Over the years, my kids have done everything from harvesting vegetables from a garden and making soup to putting on “publishing parties” where they read stories they wrote and illustrated. The teachers also engage with each student in an individual way. When my daughters encountered academic or personal challenges at school, their teachers reached out, suggesting creative solutions. I always felt that they cared and wanted to see my kids reach their full potential.

I also believe in the Open Optional approach to education, which relies on teacher feedback and self-evaluation instead of grades. Our family’s experience of this has even influenced my teaching at the college level. I hadn’t heard of student-led conferences before this program. Now I can’t think of a better way to engage in my children’s education than to see their work in a portfolio, celebrate their successes, and help them identify areas to grow. I am grateful for this program and the strong academic, social, and personal foundation it has provided my children." 

-Jen McClung, parent

My School Transition  

"I attended Chinook Elementary School for grades K-6. It was a truly lovely experience. Not having grades was a blessing and a pain at times.  It took off a lot of stress and let me feel more free to learn, but on the other hand, I felt like I didn’t know how I was really doing in school. So going to Mears Middle School and having grades would be a big change. By the end of 6th grade, I was feeling more confident that I would do well and enjoy middle school. When I got to Mears, I began using grades and the study skills and organization techniques I learned in elementary school, and I did super well. I joined the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) and was at the top of most of my classes. By the end of 7th grade, I had gone from no grades to being a straight A student. I had a great switch and was ready for the road ahead thanks to my 6th grade year and all we did to prepare for Middle School." 

-Jackie McClung - Chinook graduate, class of 2022 

A Safe Emotional Space

"My child is currently a fifth grader and has been attending Chinook Open Optional since first grade. The first half of first grade my child struggled with reading and writing so much we were almost to the point of getting her tested for a possible learning disorder, but with the care and teaching she received, she flourished and now we can't get books out of her hands. Since then, she has continued to grow academically and has been offered opportunities like ignite and highly gifted programs.

When we were looking for options of alternative schools, we were drawn to the concept of community based learning and multi-age classrooms, giving students the chance to learn from their elders as well as being an elder for others to look up to. Along with this, she was able to create bonds with teachers over a 2 year span, giving her a safe space emotionally to come to. She was also able to build strong relationships with other staff as she attended Chinook Open Optional through the years.

We are thankful for the time we've been able to have here and are sad it is coming to an early end with upcoming district changes."

-Tara Sievers, parent