big picture learning
I’m at a Big Picture Learning conference today and tomorrow in Sacramento and it’s been a really interesting glimpse at what a charter school can do if they think outside of the box. I’m not thrilled about everything the school is doing but they are definitely doing a lot of things right. They are incorporating project-based learning and work-based learning, two elements I think should be utilized a lot more in more public high schools. They are also keeping classrooms small and requiring a lot of one-on-one contact between teachers and students. I chatted with the Big Picture Learning founder, Elliot Washor, this morning and I thanked him for inviting us to his schools and sharing his ideas and materials. He smiled and told me to steal whatever I wanted. I wish all progressive organizations were so open.
We spent most of the day visiting different internships all over Sacramento that ranged from Bertolucci’s Body and Fender Shop (complete with a vintage car room!) to City Hall to a Horse Farm. Tomorrow we’ll get to spend some time with the students and their advisories and ask them about their experience. I’m really looking forward to it.
The school is located in a really old building that is a bit rickety but definitely has its charms.
