Advancing Equity through Deeper Learning in Rural Schools (Charleston, SC)

Advancing Equity through Deeper Learning in Rural Schools (Charleston, SC)
Advancing Equity through Deeper Learning in Rural Schools (Charleston, SC)
Charleston, SC

Overview

This study tour addressed how two high-need rural schools in South Carolina are addressing the challenges of preparing students for college and career success. The i95 “Corridor of Shame” in rural South Carolina is characterized by high illiteracy and high unemployment, yet within this corridor, two districts are working to transform their community into a “Corridor of Innovation.” They are accomplishing this with the New Tech Network, a leading design partner for comprehensive school transformation, as well as the Riley Institute, based at Furman University. These two STEM-focused New Tech high schools—Scott’s Branch High School and Cougar New Tech—will graduate their first classes in 2017. The schools utilize four design pillars: culture that empowers students and teachers, project-based learning, broad use of technology, and school-wide “deeper learning” student outcomes. Additionally, dual enrollment with college courses and engagement with regional employers are helping to advance equity and opportunity for students, families, and the community by promoting student development, growth, and economic self-sufficiency.

____________________________

The American Youth Policy Forum (AYPF), a nonprofit, nonpartisan professional development organization based in Washington, DC, provides learning opportunities for policy leaders, practitioners, and researchers working on youth and education issues at the national, state, and local levels. AYPF events and publications are made possible by contributions from philanthropic foundations. For a complete list, click here.