We are an Expeditionary Learning School

Expeditionary Learning is a national network of schools. They partner with school districts and charter boards to open new schools and transform existing schools at all levels, pre-K-12, and in all settings – urban, rural, and suburban. Since their start in 1992, they have grown from a small group of ten schools into a diverse national network of more than 150 schools.

What is Expeditionary Learning?

Our model for teaching and learning challenges students to think critically and take active roles in their classrooms and communities, resulting in higher achievement and greater engagement in school. We work with over 150 schools and 40,000 students around the country. And, we’re getting great results.

In our schools…

Learning is Active. Students are scientists, urban planners, historians, and activists. They investigate real community problems and collaborate with peers to develop creative, actionable solutions.

Learning is challenging. Students at all levels are pushed and supported to do more than they think they can. Excellence is expected in the quality of their work and thinking.

Learning is meaningful. Students apply their skills and knowledge to real-world issues and make positive changes in their communities. They see the relevance of their learning and are motivated by understanding that learning has purpose.

Learning is public. Through formal structures of presentation, exhibition, critique, and data analysis, students and teachers build a shared vision of pathways to achievement.

Learning is collaborative. School leaders, teachers, students, and families share rigorous expectations for quality work, achievement, and behavior. Trust, respect, responsibility, and joy in learning permeate the school culture.

Expeditionary Learning is a framework for engaged teaching and learning.

We invest in the growth of both new and veteran teachers, helping them transform their classrooms into rigorous and stimulating learning environments. Our model challenges students to think critically and take active roles in their classrooms and communities. This results in higher achievement and greater engagement in school. EL schools are characterized by:

  • Active instructional practices that build academic skills and student motivation
  • Rigorous projects that meet state standards and are connected to real-world needs
  • School cultures of kindness, respect, and responsibility for learning
  • Shared leadership for school improvement
  • School-wide commitment to improved teaching and leadership practice

Expeditionary Learning is a partner for whole school improvement.

We offer our schools a comprehensive suite of professional development, coaching, and on-line tools to improve curriculum design, instruction, school culture, leadership, and assessment practices. Our content-rich institutes and school-based coaching support schools to be engaging environments where kids love to learn and teachers love to teach.

Visit www.elschools.org for more information.