International Studies As a Catalyst to Urban School Reform

Excellence, Equity and Global Opportunities

Putting the World Into World Class EducationJuly 9, 2008

Anthony Jackson

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The Gates Challenge: The International Studies Schools Network (ISSN)

• A network of small international studies secondary schools nationwide

• Located in urban school districts serving low income and minority children and families

• Future expansion: K-12; rural areas

• Model development to transform high schooling

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ISSN School Performance VersusComparison School Performance

ISSN Comparison0

10

20

30

40

50

ISSN Schools Outperformed 46 of 57comparisons

Comparison Schools Outperformed11 of 57 comparisons

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International Studies Schools Network Design Model

Vision, Mission,

and School Culture

Curriculum, Assessment, & Instruction

Professional Learning Communities

School Organization and GovernanceStudent Engagement

and Learning Outcomes

Partnerships

Successful ISSN School

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Student Learning Outcomes (ISSN Graduate Profile)

• ISSN graduates are Ready for College.

• ISSN Graduates have the Knowledge Required in the Global Era.

• ISSN graduates are Skilled for Success in a Global Environment.

• ISSN graduates are Connected to the World.

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Vision, Mission, Culture

• Shared vision of an internationally-focused, 21st century learning community

• High expectations for all students to gain the knowledge, skills and dispositions of a college ready, globally competent citizen

• Core values that include rigor, inclusion, service and leadership

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Curriculum, Assessment & Instruction

• Global Focus woven seamlessly throughout the curriculum

• Comprehensive Assessment that offers multiple pathways for students to demonstrate their learning about the world

• Engaging Instruction that immerses students in problem-based, project-based international explorations that deepen subject-specific understandings while allowing students to make interdisciplinary connections

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School Organization and Governance

• Students and Staff who elected to be a part of an internationally-focused education

• Personalization so all students find their place and connection within the globally-focused mission of the school

• Opportunities to learn and lead so all members of the school community have access to and voice in shaping the school, its policies, and practices

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Family and Community Partnerships

• Family involvement that engages families as partners and calls on their diverse assets as sources of international learning at the school

• Community partnerships that foster and extend the school’s international mission and students’ learning opportunities