There is so much for your child to gain by attending JGESA

  • Allowing students to design learning experiences based on their own unique interests and passions encourages them to be self-motivated, independent thinkers who are capable of solving problems, thinking critically and who are prepared for life.

A School Like No Other

Project Based Learning

  • How do we facilitate the work of youth as self-directed producers and learners?

    Allowing students to design learning experiences based on their own unique interests and passions encourages them to be self-motivated, independent thinkers who are capable of solving problems, thinking critically and who are prepared for post-secondary options and the workforce. Personalized learning plans are designed for each student.

    PBL cycle

    What is Project-Based Learning?

    Project-Based Learning (PBL) gets kids excited about learning by tailoring learning opportunities to match their interests. Students pursue their passions and academics at the same time by earning credit for projects they design.

    - Love to draw? Create a comic book about an interesting person or event in history.
    - Video games more your speed? Learn about an ancient civilization and build a game.
    - Like to hunt or fish? Turn your trophy into an anatomy lesson.
    - You like to cook - bake a cake that represents the layers of the earth's crust.
    - Want to take a hike? Photograph and identify wildlife along the way.

    Click here for answers to more Frequently Asked Questions

    Click here for a Showcase of Student Projects

    Research more by reading this  great article that describes PBL. 
Project Based Learning microscope

Small Learning Community

  • How do we connect with young people in a positive learning community?

    By moving away from a teacher-driven, lecture based model, Advisors are able to work side by side with students, helping to guide and facilitate the learning process. Positive, caring relationships are formed and every student is seen and treated as an individual. Advisors serve as an advocate and mentor to the student.

Authentic Assessment

  • How do we know that we are achieving our intended results?

    Advisors facilitate the integration of state standards into student projects. Students demonstrate their knowledge through evaluations with Advisors, demonstrations, exhibits and/or public presentations. State test results inform decisions about the students’ personalized learning plan and graduation requirements include standards met as well as project credits, life skills gained, and a capstone project.
Assesment

Family and Community Involvement

  • How do we work together to engage students as lifelong learners?

    Families, community members and local experts are actively engaged in the students’ learning on a regular basis. Service Learning encourages students to connect to the broader community. Teachers take pride and ownership in the school thereby making decisions that benefit the entire learning community.
Field Trip

Norms

  • Students are the center of everything we do at JGESA. Students were invited to create the norms by which all students and staff operate at school.

     
Norms Graphic