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SLC Structures
Smaller Learning Community Structures
SLC Structures at Chico High
SLC Structures at Pleasant Valley High
| | "Combining several smaller school reforms with each other, as well as with other comprehensive reforms, is more beneficial than implementing one smaller school strategy in isolation. Small school structures, implemented along with other complementary strategies that enhance student learning, are most likely to succeed."
--from "An Overview of Smaller Learning Communities in High Schools" published by the USDepartment of Education, 2001. Available at http://www.ed.gov/programs/slcp/slchighschools_research_09_01.doc
Smaller learning communities structures include academies, houses, schools-within-schools, and magnet schools. Both Chico High and Pleasant Valley High have structures in place and/or being planned at their sites. Though these structures don't meet the technical definition of "schools-within-school" put forth by the Department of Education, that is perhaps the best way to understand them.
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| | The Academy of Communications and Technology (ACT)
ACT combines the efforts of instructors from many disciplines in an innovative, challenging academic curriculum with hands-on activities that teach students how to apply their knowledge. Students become proficient in the use of computers as a tool for research, presentation, and video production. Service-learning activities are included at all grade levels. ACT students enroll in science and foreign language associate classes.
Chico FFA
Students in this small learning community take coursework and work on projects in the fields of animal science, plant science, and agricultural mechanics. Students are in FFA and work with others towards the development of leadership skills and the improvement of agriculture. The four-year program will lead students to college and/or careers beyond high school.
Chico High WEST
WEST stresses that students learn how to use their minds well in a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum. Highly motivated and caring teachers emphasize an atmosphere of fun and commitment, embracing the school experience.
Chico Academy of Design (CAD+)
Chico Academy of Design (CAD) is built on a solid foundation of Engineering, Architecture and Manufacturing courses that exist within Chico High’s traditional program. These are high-tech, exciting classes which prepare students for more than college. Students learn in modern computerized labs and use industry-standard software. 'PLUS', means students will be integrating Math and English skills specifically developed for the DesignAcademy. Advanced students are involved in internships, mentorships and R.O.P. job placements. Traditional scheduling is used in CAD+ so students can be flexible to focus on their own interests. | |
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| | iHost Academy:
2008-2009 brings the implementation of our district's newest academy, iHost. Priscilla Burns left as the ACE-LIFE Academy director and will be assuming directorship responsibilities for iHost. Laura Tittle will replace Ms. Burns as director of the ACE-LIFE academy.
iHost is a California Partnership Academy that integrates academics and the Career and Technical industry sector of Food Services, Hospitality and Tourism. iHOST stands for International Hospitality Occupations Services Team. Students and Teachers working together in a smaller learning community will be reaching out to community groups for internships, job shadows, service learning and integrated community service projects. We are in the 1st year of implementation and very excited about all the dynamic rigorous and relevant projects for students and staff. A student-run catering business is a real-world component of the academy. Students regularly compete and work in culinary, nutrition and hospitaliity settings, competitions and events. Priscilla Burns will be Project Coordinator and can be contacted for more information.
ACE-LIFE Academy:
This Partnership Academy program at Pleasant Valley High School blends academics with a career focus in Education, Child Development and Human Services . Students have the opportunity to explore and shadow professionals in the teaching, health and service careers, and the program draws from the expertise of industry-mentors and advisors.
The Art Studio @ PV:
After planning in the 2006-07 year, 2007-2008 is the first year of implementation for Art Studio @ PV, a grant-funded Specialized Secondary Program, whose goal is to provide students with a rigorous, standards-based academic foundation that will ready them for postsecondary study or a variety of careers in the visual arts. The program's three-part emphasis—studio work, art exhibition, and public artwork—will draw on the strong connections our SSP staff has with local artists, the city of Chico, and our local IHEs (CSU Chico and Butte College) to provide advanced opportunities for instruction and practice in the visual arts. See a powerpoint with an overview of the grant here. If you have any questions contact Art Studio Director, Reta Rickmers.
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