When teens feel that adults at their school care about their learning and about them as individuals, they are more likely to have higher grades and test scores, have better school attendance and stay in school longer, according to the Centers for Disease Control. When youth feel connected to their school, they are less likely to experience poor mental health, substance abuse, violence and risky sexual activities.
Eighty one percent of our students said they feel they belong at their school according to a recent random survey of 10,000 of our students. The results show that its personalized learning model ensures each student has ample time with their teachers, tutors, principals, counselors and other staff to develop a sense of belonging.
Compare that to a similar question asked in the Michigan Student Voice survey, in which just 55 percent of high schoolers feel connected to their schools, or the national rate of 49 percent.
When asked if they have a caring adult at their school they could go to for help, almost 95 percent of our students said yes, while in a national survey, only 66 percent responded positively.
“Another key component of school connectedness is when the teachers have high expectations for them academically,” said Shellie Hanes, superintendent. “Our students overwhelmingly say their teachers encourage them to turn in credits and encourage their progress toward graduation – 96 percent.”
Hanes pointed out that a traditional school model isn’t always the best environment for students to feel connected. The American Psychological Association (APA) agrees, reporting that one of the most exciting changes in education is personalized learning backed by sound science, with the goal of making learning more effective for each student.
Recent graduate Jolie F. felt like she was falling through the cracks at her overpopulated high school. “It was a struggle. I was always falling behind and couldn’t find my groove,” she explained. “I was just longing to be heard.”
She transferred to our school, and her teachers developed a personalized plan that allowed her to learn at a pace that best suited her learning style. She was struggling with her mental health, so the staff made sure she got counseling and constant encouragement to keep her motivated and doing her best.
“Compared to traditional high school, my teachers are far more in tune with students’ personal needs. They truly want all the students to reach their fullest potential,” said Jolie, who is now in college.
August is Personalized Learning Month, to recognize, promote and support the practice of teaching students in the way that each learns best.