Students are supported to do far more than they think they can. Teachers expect excellence and teach in ways that enable students to learn deeply, surpass standards, and produce high-quality work. Students and teachers model academic courage.

Students are scientists, urban planners, historians, artists, and activists, exploring ideas and engaging in authentic work that allows them to contribute to their communities and promote equity and social justice.

Students build deep understanding of concepts and can apply their skills and knowledge to new contexts and real-world issues. They are learning with a purpose—getting smart to do good—and see that their education is in service of building a better world.

School leaders, teachers, students, and families work together to create a culture of respect, responsibility, and joy in learning. The school community is a place where all students and adults feel that they belong, support each other to succeed, and are inspired to be their best selves.

Students produce high-quality work for presentation to audiences within and beyond the school. They reflect on what and how they learn with peers, teachers, and community members. Hallways and classrooms are filled with evidence of learning and beautiful student work.