Oct 9, 2013

A Must See Video: Project-Based Learning at High Tech High

During a recent meeting, my principal spoke on the topic of innovation. She encouraged staff members to think outside the box, be creative, and brainstorm innovative ways we could increase student learning and sense of connectedness to school in our classrooms.

As an introduction to the topic of innovation, she shared a video, Project-Based Learning at High Tech. High Tech High was founded in 2000 as a single charter school. Because of High Tech High’s success, there now are 4 additional high schools, 4 middle and 3 elementary schools. Their statement is, “High Tech High’s mission is to develop and support innovative public schools where all students develop the academic, workplace, and citizenship skills for postsecondary success.” High Tech High has become one of the leaders in project based education with an emphasis on arts integration.

Throughout the video, I found myself wanting to be at High Tech High, either as a student or as a teacher. The students were engaged and learning in unique, untraditional ways. Schools like High Tech High fascinate me, and inspire me to focus on increasing student engagement and success in my own classroom.

Check out the video below.

If you’re interested in learning more about High Tech High, be sure to visit their webpage.

What other exciting project based learning initiatives have you seen?

Do you see any similarities in your curriculum or school with High Tech High?

This article was written by AOE Team member Cassidy Reinken. Cassidy is a certified K-12 art educator with 7+ years experience. Her background includes teaching elementary and middle school art in Iowa.

About Cassidy | Cassidy’s Articles

Valerie

I feel like I just got my blood pumping this morning. I wish I could get my ceramics room to be more like this school. Thank you so much for sharing this video, I now want to hop a plane to California and see this school for myself.
- http://www.theartofed.com/ Cassidy Reinken
  
  I’m glad I’m not the only one who had the urge to head to California for a visit! They have information on their websites about planning a visit and after researching, I’m not going to lie, I researched the cost of plan tickets…
Tami Tucker-Vanek

It is funny how things happen all at once. I teach art, but I am also working on my masters in integrating technology into the classroom, and High Tech High was a school that I looked at as a resource this week. It sure does make you want to go and teach there. Not only do they motivate students, but also the teachers to think up inovative ideas.
- http://www.theartofed.com/ Cassidy Reinken
  
  A masters degree in technology integration sounds fascinating! I would love to hear what you learn and read your final paper. I would LOVE to visit High Tech High.
Kathryn

This is a must-see video for every teacher, at every grade level. Wow, thank you for sharing this–so energizing and inspirational, and a thrilling example of what “project based learning” can look like.