The Learning Experience
Core Prep
The learning experience is divided into two different phases: preparation and exploration (called CorePrep) and internships and access to college (called College Access). During the Core Prep phase, 9th and 10th grade students experience focuses on learning that promotes performance. To exit the preparatory phase, the students must demonstrate performances in mathematics, science, social studies, and language arts. This performance demonstration includes successfully passing the Ohio Graduation Tests and completing performance tasks that showcase the student’s ability to work independently and in-group environments as they investigate solutions to real world problems.
At its heart, Metro is designed to improve student achievement as measured through varied and multiple assessments, including the state-required Ohio Graduation Test. This mission will be accomplished through an environment that combines intellectual vibrancy with personalization. The school was created to serve average or underperforming students looking to be challenged and to improve themselves in a different environment--not the “cream of the crop” student. In particular, there will be a focus on urban students.
Learning Centers and College Access
Upon successful demonstration of mastery of the Core Prep phase, 11th and 12th grade students will learn from a curriculum that is focused on “learning outside of the school walls,” College Access. This curriculum is a series of learning laboratories within the central Ohio. As an example, students may choose, based upon their interest, a math/science focused curriculum where they work with engineers in the field and take corresponding coursework in engineering at The Ohio State University or Columbus State Community College, or a humanities-focused curriculum where they work with a newspaper editor and take corresponding journalism coursework at OSU or Columbus State. (The curriculum will include multiple settings and focus areas and will not be limited to the two examples described.)
Student experiences go beyond a traditional internship and include demonstrations of problem solving and critical thinking in partnership with the learning lab. While the core prep focus on capacity building, the College Access focuses on practical experiences, skill development, social maturity, critical thinking, and responsibility. It is in the exploratory phase that the Metro School will demonstrate the viability and value of open source approach to education.
Learn more about Metro's Core Preparation Curriculum »