Welcome

As students enter, move through, and exit the school system they will encounter many obstacles, choices, and transitions along the way for which they will need additional information, alternate examples, choice resources, insight, and additional support to achieve their goals and reach their full potential. As educators, our goal is to provide all students with many diverse tools that support success in school and beyond. Having said that, we must also acknowledge that each student is unique and as such has individual needs and aspirations.

   To help each student become more aware of who they are as learner and citizen, more informed of their surroundings and opportunities, and more in tune with the possibilities and opportunities available to them, we must support them through a comprehensive yet individually focused approach. It is through this approach that we will be able to better support and prepare them for their schooling, career, and life that lies ahead.

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   Additionally, as many studies indicate a dramatic increase in student disengagement as they progress through our educational system, we must act quickly and be proactive if we hope to address and reverse the trend. Making available varied resources, support and opportunities that educate, fuel passions and create connections and relevance are but a few great ways to begin the combat against student disengagement. Authentic learning experiences that connect the learner to the “real world” can be another useful tool, providing the necessary information and insight that many of our learners need to keep them engaged in their education. While there is plenty of evidence that supports the thought that engaged learners learn more, with greater ease and with greater frequency, there is no doubt that early understanding, connection, and direction also allows students to accelerate their learning and planning in a more focused way. Students who are connected to and engaged in the creation of knowledge simply do better than those who are not.