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Student Name_____________________________ Current Team_____________________ 2019-2020 Course Selection Sheet

All 8th grade students will take math, science, social studies, and English. These courses will be pre-set in your schedule

and will fill 4 of the 7 periods in our school day. Students wanting advanced classes can sign up on the back of this form.

Students interested in the PBL New Tech Network pathway can also sign up on the back of this form.

You have up to 3 periods to fill with PE and a combination of electives, study halls, and/or support classes. Some electives

meet every day all year long. Some meet every day for 1 semester. Others may meet every other day for the entire year.

When selecting electives, you must pair up classes that work together in the schedule. To help you, courses have been

grouped together below. Due to budget limitations, scheduling conflicts, class sizes, and other potentially unforeseen

problems, not all students will get their first choice of electives. Therefore, you are required to indicate at least 2 alternative

elective choices. Study halls or electives may be replaced with resource classes when students qualify.

All students must successfully complete a minimum number of required and elective courses to pass 8th grade. To ensure

that you have selected enough elective choices, select a total of 6 points from the system below, and then subtract the points

for study halls. The difference must be at least 3. Alternate choices are not worth any points. Please tally your points at

the bottom of this form to make sure you have reached the minimum requirement.

Every other day courses, two semesters long (all of these are worth 1 point): These are each work 1 point. They need to be selected in PAIRS. When picking from this category you

must select 2, 4 or 6 choices INCLUDING PE.

___PE = 1 point. YOU MUST SELECT THIS COURSE

___Band = 1 point ___Chorus = 1 point

___Orchestra = 1 point ___Study hall, every other day all year = 1 points

___ELP (students must have previously qualified for ELP to select this choice)

Every day courses, one semester long (all of these are worth 1 point): These are each worth 1 point. They need to be selected in PAIRS. If you pick from this category you

must select either 2 or 4 choices.

___Drama = 1 point ___Communications Media = 1 point

___Foods = 1 points ___Sewing = 1 point

___Exploratory Tech = 1 point ___GTT: DMAR = 1 point

___Visual Art = 1 point ___Study hall, every day 1 semester = 1 points

Every day courses all year long (2 semesters). These are worth 2 points each. If you choose one, it does NOT need to be paired with any other course.

____Spanish I = 2 points ____Study Hall = 2 points

Total points _____ _____ Study Hall pts = ____

Alternative choices: List at least 2. You CANNOT list Study Hall as an alternative

COMPLETE AND SIGN THE BACK OF THIS FORM

It must equal at least 3!

It must equal

6!

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Project Based Learning (PBL) through the New Tech Network (NTN)

West Des Moines CSD offers a PBL Pathway through New Tech Network that involves Project-Based Learning

in collaborative groups to solve authentic problems with business partners. See “Frequently Asked Questions”

in the 8th Grade Curriculum Guide for additional information, or visit www.wdmcs.org/academics/problem-

based-learning/

*All students must indicate if they want to participate in the Project Based Learning option offered in 8th grade.

Are you currently on one of the New Tech/PBL teams as a 7th grader:

_____YES _____NO

Do you want to be on the New Tech/PBL team as an 8th grader:

_____YES _____NO

Advanced courses for 8th graders 8th graders have the option of signing up for advanced English, advanced social studies, and/or advanced

science. We strongly encourage families to consider the possible outcomes, positive or negative, of choosing

advanced classes. The 8th grade advanced physical science class will receive high school credit. The grades

for this class will impact the high school GPA and appear on the high school transcript. See the registration

packet for additional information or call a school counselor with questions. After reviewing grades, academic

assessments, and performance in the 7th grade curriculum, your student has been recommended for the courses

listed below. To select courses other than what is recommended, you must indicate your choice on the form

below. We strongly encourage that you have a discussion with your 7th grade teachers during

conferences before you make a change to the recommended courses.

***Note: Students in New Tech/PBL take humanities, which is a combination of English and social studies.

New Tech students must select both advanced English and advanced social studies if they choose the advanced

track.

Course recommendation for ___________________________________ If you choose to take a course other than what is recommended, please cross out

the recommendation and mark the box by the other option

Advanced Physical Science

***(Receives High School Credit)

Grade Science

Advanced Social Studies English and SS are

combined and called

Humanities for PBLN

8th grade Social Studies English and SS are

combined and called

Humanities for PBLN Advanced English 8th grade English

Student Name______________________Parent Signature _____________________

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Student Name________________________

Characteristics of Effective Learners (adapted from Skip Downing’s On Course)

Students/Parents: Review this list of characteristics of effective learners. Check how each one describes you. THIS MUST BE FILLED OUT IF STUDENT SIGNS UP FOR ADVANCED CLASSES.

Effective Learners... Usually Some-

times Seldom

DISPLAY A WILLINGNESS TO LEARN, taking information taught and applying it in ways that are meaningful to them; expanding upon the information to make it fit into their interests and surroundings.

SET GOALS, knowing what they want to achieve, identifying they have to work on, seeing their progress toward each goal, and taking pride in achieving each goal.

ACCEPT SELF-RESPONSIBILITY, seeing themselves as the primary cause of their outcomes and experiences.

DISCOVER SELF-MOTIVATION, finding purpose in their lives by discovering personally meaningful goals and dreams.

MASTER SELF-MANAGEMENT, consistently planning and taking purposeful actions in pursuit of their goals and dreams.

EMPLOY INTERDEPENDENCE, building mutually supportive relationships that help them achieve their goals and dreams (while helping others to do the same).

DISPLAY INDEPENDENCE, feeling comfortable in a learning environment that places emphasis on individuals taking responsibility for their learning process.

GAIN SELF-AWARENESS, consciously employing behaviors, beliefs, and attitudes that keep them on course.

SELF-ADVOCATE AND COMMUNICATE, taking responsibility for their learning by asking questions and voicing their confusion, frustration, concerns, absences, etc.

ASK QUESTIONS, willing to ask for and accept assistance; realizing that there is always more to know.

DO NOT FRUSTRATE EASILY, showing perseverance, resilience, and a willingness to work hard, make mistakes, and even fail; learning from setbacks.

ADOPT LIFE-LONG LEARNING, finding valuable lessons and wisdom in nearly every experience they have.

DEVELOP EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, effectively managing their emotions in support of their goals and dreams.

BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES, seeing themselves capable, lovable, and unconditionally worthy as human beings.

MEET DEADLINES, turning in assignments on time and taking time to produce work that looks good and shows pride in their work.

Other things to consider when deciding on Advanced Classes:

Past Iowa Assessments o All Advanced: Advanced Reading Score (>264 in 6th Grade) o Advanced Science: Advanced Math Score (>257 in 6th Grade)

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Indian Hills Junior High Eighth Grade Registration Packet

2019-2020 Dear Parents:

The purpose of this packet is to acquaint parents with the required and elective 8th grade courses offered at Indian Hills. Your student will first be given this packet the week of February 11th. Please review it and discuss courses, but do NOT fill it out. Students will need to bring the packet with them to science class on Wednesday, February 20th, where they will receive specific instructions on how to fill out the course selection worksheet. In lieu of a parent meeting, we will send out a link to videos that will explain the registration process and the opportunities available to 8th graders.

All students are required to take math, English, social studies, science and physical education both semesters. If your son or daughter is currently in reading, math resource, ELL, ELP, and/or learning lab, those courses will be recommended for next year. Students with an IEP will be placed in the appropriate classes.

After the classroom work on February 20th, you and your child will need to select elective courses and mark them on the Course Selection Sheet. Please review the eighth grade curriculum and confirm that your child has selected an appropriate number of elective choices. He or she must also designate two or more "Alternative Electives". Students need to return the SIGNED Course Selection Sheet to their science teacher by Thursday, February 21st. They will also need to complete the page indicating their preference for the PBLN team and any advanced classes they plan to take. Students electing to take advanced classes will also need to complete and return the Characteristics of Effective Learners form. You can also turn the forms into the teachers during parent teacher conferences the 20th and 21st. Your signature on the Course Selection Sheet will indicate your approval with the selections . On Friday, February 22nd students will be entering elective requests during science classes. Core classes and teacher recommended classes will already be selected for them.

Due to budget restraints, teaming, class size, and conflicts with other classes, it may not be possible to schedule every student into 100% of his or her elective choices. If a conflict exists, the computer will automatically attempt to substitute one of your "Alternative Electives" for the course in conflict . Alternative courses will not be scheduled unless the student has a scheduling conflict with his or her initial course requests.

The West Des Moines Community School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy, please contact the district’s Equity Coordinator Carol Seid, Associate Superintendent of Human Resources, 3550 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines, IA 50265; Phone: 515-633-5037; E-mail seidc@wdmcs.org.

The administrative and counseling staffs ask your prompt attention to bringing the signed Course Selection Sheet on February 21. Before signing the form, you can ask questions by calling 633-4700 or scheduling a conference with a counselor or administrator. You can get additional information during parent teacher conferences on February 20th and 21st. Watch for an email with a link to our website that will take you to videos describing the registration process and 8th grade opportunities. Indian Hills would encourage your attendance to help your child make informed decisions.

Sincerely, Mr. Joe Rich, Counselor Mrs. Lindsey Cunningham, Counselor Mr. Shane Christensen, Principal Mr. Zac Sinram, Assistant Principal

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2 Course Descriptions, Elective Courses: Visual Art:ART840 This course is designed to explore the visual arts in depth, expanding students' previous

experiences. Students will increase their understanding of the importance of the visual arts, their function in society and impact on their daily lives. They will analyze, assess, and derive meaning from works of art, including their own, according to the elements of art, the principles of design, and aesthetic qualities. The role and development of the visual arts in past and present cultures throughout the world, noting diversity as it relates to the visual arts and artists will be explored. Students will continue to study a variety of art media and methods through self-expression. National art standards are incorporated in the art curriculum.

Communication Media: ENG809 This course consists of hands on projects such as the school newspaper,

creating a magazine, radio broadcasting, TV programming, and film production. Students will learn to recognize and understand the media’s importance and influence in the world and in their lives. Students will also have many opportunities for advancing their speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills.

Drama: ENG808 This is an exploratory theater arts course. Units of study include informal and formal

acting opportunities culminating in an one-act play production. The study of drama teaches commitment, concentration, creativity, and cooperation which all students need to succeed in an increasingly complex world. Drama also provides opportunities for students to engage actively and personally in all four communication skills: speaking, reading, writing, and listening.

Spanish I: FRL801 This course is an initiation into the structure of the Spanish language and a survey of the

cultures in Spanish-speaking countries. Speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills will be developed through varied classroom activities. Students will gain basic working vocabulary with which they will be able to communicate. It is recommended, but not required, that students complete 7 th grade Spanish if they intend to take Spanish I in 8 th grade. After successfully completing a full year of Spanish I, a student is qualified to enroll in the level II course at Valley Southwoods.

Family/Consumer Science FCS-Foods: FCS830 This semester course will provide students the opportunity to develop valuable

kitchen skills as they work individually and with others in the labs. Students will gain knowledge of kitchen safety and food sanitation through the preparation of items such as: pizza, muffins, biscuits, breads, vegetables, fruits, cookies and many other foods. Lifelong nutritious food choices are discussed and encouraged. The planning, preparing, serving and table etiquette are all life skills that are taught in the 8 th grade foods class.

FCS-Sewing: FCS831 This semester course will provide students the opportunity to improve their

machine and hand sewing skills. Students will create several sewing projects (frog, sports bags, a clothing item such as flannel pants, etc.) that will teach many sewing techniques as well as fabric selection and care. Students will explore the areas of design, color, and the history of clothing. For a class final, students may create a project by using a computer-aided program or an independently chosen alternative project. Students will need to pay for the projects that are ordered for them.

Exploring Technology: TEC820 This course studies how men and women use different materials and

change these materials to make them more useful. Students will gain experience working with

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wood, metal and plastic, and study the processes of laminating, welding, and forming. Problem solving is also studied. Projects include clocks, mini-basketball hoops, and various plastic projects.

GTT: DMAR: TEC821 Gateway to Technology:

Design & Modeling Students apply the design process to solve problems and understand the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. They work in teams to design a playground and furniture, capturing research and ideas in their engineering notebooks. Using Autodesk® design software, students create a virtual image of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their innovative solutions. Automation & Robotics Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics as they learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students use the VEX Robotics® platform to design, build, and program real-world objects such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms.

Band: MUS882 While beginners are welcome in band, it is recommended that students have previous

training on their instruments so that they may participate in large group band instruction. During the year, the band will perform various concerts. Each student will have a group lesson once per six days. All students have the opportunity to audition for jazz band and will be encouraged to perform in solo and ensemble contests. Band meets every other day and is a one-year course.

Chorus: MUS883 Chorus is open to any student who enjoys singing and wants to further his or her

musicianship. Attention is placed on development of vocal skills and choral technique. The students sing three and four part music and perform various concerts and occasions throughout the year. All chorus members are eligible to audition for the show choir, which is an extra-curricular activity. Chorus meets every other day and is a one-year course.

Orchestra: MUS884 Students are provided large group, small group, and individual orchestra experiences.

Each student also participates in a combined junior high chamber orchestra. Individual or small group lessons are available to each student. The orchestra will perform at several concerts during the year. Orchestra meets every other day and is a one-year course.

Course Descriptions: Teacher Recommended/Resource Courses:

Reading: ENG807 The purpose of this class is to provide students with additional time to read and develop study skills and reading strategies useful for core subject reading. Enrollment is based on test scores and teacher recommendations. The class meets every other day all year. Students scoring an NSS score of 219 and below for 7 th grade and 231 and below for 8 th grade on the Reading section of the Iowa Assessments will be required to take this class if it can be fit into their schedule. If it becomes apparent by the building administrator, that the student has been inappropriately placed, an adjustment will be made .

Extended Learning: LRN899 The purpose of this class is to develop self-directed, independent life-long learners. Students work individually, in small groups, and with the entire group on projects and presentations based upon their interests, needs, and abilities. ELP is open only to identified gifted and talented students who have been recommended. Parent permission is required. The class is a one-year course scheduled every other day opposite physical education or study hall.

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4 E.S.O.L.: ESOL Newcomers As students enter the WDM School District with English for Students of

Other Languages, the Idea Proficiency Test (IPT) will be administered. Students scoring a low proficiency score on oral, written, or reading will be served within the Newcomers Program at Valley High School for three periods in the mornings. Students are eligible to participate in the program for two full semesters. After completing the Newcomers Program, students will be served by the regular E.S.L. teacher at Indian Hills by taking ESL892.

E.S.O.L.: LRN892 The purpose of E.S.O.L. is to provide support and modifications for students whose native language is not English. This class teaches basic skills in reading, writing, and speaking English. The class meets every day in order to teach English and support academics in content area classes.

Learning Lab: LRN801 The learning lab is a non-graded class designed to help and assist students who are struggling with academic success, organization skills, and assignment completion. Parents will be contacted to discuss this option after the school year begins if problems become apparent. The learning lab will become a closely supervised study hall with a small teacher to student ratio. The class meets every other day or every day, if needed.

Math Resource: MTH810 The purpose of this course is to provide students with additional direct instruction in

math skills and strategies. Students will be assessed for problem areas, and review key concepts using a variety of strategies and methods. Enrollment is based on assessment scores and team recommendation. This course meets every other day. If it becomes apparent by the building administrator, that the student has been inappropriately placed, an adjustment will be made.

Course Descriptions- Required Courses: English: ENG801 Reading, writing, speaking, listening, and thinking skills and strategies are integrated

to form a dynamic process-based program which explores relationships among and between the communication arenas. This integrated approach provides priority time for students to demonstrate their literacy growth, encourages students to assume responsibility and ownership for their own language learning, and provides opportunities for students to discover, explore, formulate, and evaluate ideas. Reading workshop, writing workshop, and traditional theme-centered projects integrating all content areas are significant components of the curriculum.

Adv. English: ENG802 This advanced course will provide priority time for students to engage in the language processes of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will study classic and contemporary literature in a variety of genres. Instruction and practice in the writing process with assignments ranging from narratives based on personal experience to explanatory essays. The emphasis is on developing an individual voice and on learning through reading, discussion, and expository writing—to shape experience, discover ideas and communicate effectively in a variety of rhetorical situations. In the context of the students’ own writing, matters of grammar, punctuation, and usage are reviewed as necessary. This course will help in preparing students for Accelerated Pathways at Valley Southwoods as well as allow West Des Moines junior high students to take advanced courses without leaving the district.

Science: SCI851 This course provides an integrated and balanced coverage of all science disciplines

including physics, life science, earth science, chemistry, and sequences them so that topics presented in each course build upon previously learned concepts. Health topics include drug and alcohol education and human growth and development.

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5 Adv. Physical Science: SCI852 This is a high school level course with a focus on middle and high

school Physical Science, Engineering Technology and Earth-Space science concepts as outlined by the Iowa Core standards. Students enrolled in this course will experience a compacted, in-depth, and rigorous learning environment inclusive of standards associated with middle school and high school physical science. This course leads to enrollment in Biology at the 9 th grade. This course is for 2 high school credits and fulfills 2 credits of the Physical Science graduation requirements.

Social Studies: SOC841 Students will be provided with a relatively comprehensive overview of American history from Pre-Columbian America to 1877. In addition this course provides opportunities to engage in research and enriched activities.

Adv. Social Studies: SOC842 This course will have similar content base compared to the regular section of 8 th grade social studies (1500’s – 1900’s US History), but will take a more intense look at the history through a variety of different methods. Students will have the opportunity to debate historical issues, study and compare work of historians, analyze primary resources, apply historical learning in a modern setting and explore problem based learning. Students will be asked to read and write at a high level in promotion of higher order thinking skills related to the content. This course will help in preparing students for Accelerated Pathways at Valley Southwoods as well as allow West Des Moines junior high students to take advanced courses without leaving the district.

Physical Education: PHY870 The physical education program encourages the development of a healthy lifestyle. The curriculum utilizes a variety of individual and group activities to improve the student’s knowledge, appreciation, and performance in the areas of fitness, motor skills, and games. Classes meet every other day. A plain white T-shirt, (may be purchased at IH) any colored gym shorts/gym pants, socks, and gym shoes are required.

Pre-Algebra A: MTH811 This two-semester course is aligned to the Eighth-Grade Iowa Core Math

Standards. Pre-Algebra topics include algebraic expressions, linear equations and systems of equations, functions, and geometric relationships of two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures. This A-level course is designed to meet the learning needs of students who are approaching proficiency in their knowledge of the Seventh-Grade Iowa Core Math Standards. This course is a prerequisite for Algebra I A.

Pre-Algebra B: MTH821 This two-semester course is aligned to the Eighth-Grade Iowa Core Math Standards. Pre-Algebra topics include algebraic expressions, linear equations and systems of equations, functions, and geometric relationships of two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures. This B-level course is designed to meet the learning needs of students who are proficient in their knowledge of the Seventh-Grade Iowa Core Math Standards. This course is a prerequisite for Algebra I B.

Algebra C (Advanced): MTH831 The course content is similar to 9th grade Algebra which includes problem solving techniques, the real number system, polynomials, functions, and quadratic equations. This course is open only to qualified students who have successfully completed pre-algebra C (advanced), by teacher recommendation, or special testing. This course is for high school credit.

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Characteristics of Effective Learners (adapted from Skip Downing’s On Course )

Students: Review this list of characteris�cs of effec�ve learners. Check how each one describes you.

Effective Learners... Usually Some- times

Seldom

DISPLAY A WILLINGNESS TO LEARN , taking informa�on taught and applying it in ways that are meaningful to them; expanding upon the informa�on to make it fit into their interests and surroundings.

SET GOALS , knowing what they want to achieve, iden�fying they have to work on, seeing their progress toward each goal, and taking pride in achieving each goal.

ACCEPT SELF-RESPONSIBILITY , seeing themselves as the primary cause of their outcomes and experiences.

DISCOVER SELF-MOTIVATION , finding purpose in their lives by discovering personally meaningful goals and dreams.

MASTER SELF-MANAGEMENT , consistently planning and taking purposeful ac�ons in pursuit of their goals and dreams.

EMPLOY INTERDEPENDENCE , building mutually suppor�ve rela�onships that help them achieve their goals and dreams (while helping others to do the same).

DISPLAY INDEPENDENCE , feeling comfortable in a learning environment that places emphasis on individuals taking responsibility for their learning process.

GAIN SELF-AWARENESS , consciously employing behaviors, beliefs, and a�tudes that keep them on course.

SELF-ADVOCATE AND COMMUNICATE , taking responsibility for their learning by asking ques�ons and voicing their confusion, frustra�on, concerns, absences, etc.

ASK QUESTIONS , willing to ask for and accept assistance; realizing that there is always more to know.

DO NOT FRUSTRATE EASILY , showing perseverance, resilience, and a willingness to work hard, make mistakes, and even fail; learning from setbacks.

ADOPT LIFE-LONG LEARNING , finding valuable lessons and wisdom in nearly every experience they have.

DEVELOP EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE , effec�vely managing their emo�ons in support of their goals and dreams.

BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES , seeing themselves capable, lovable, and uncondi�onally worthy as human beings.

MEET DEADLINES , turning in assignments on �me and taking �me to produce work that looks good and shows pride in their work.

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Project-Based Learning Network (PBLN) Pathway

Schools : Indian Hills Junior High and Stilwell Junior High

● Our junior high buildings have three interdisciplinary teams per grade level.

● Every student can choose the Project-Based Learning Network (PBLN) or the traditional pathway.

● The traditional teams use elements of project- and problem-based learning, but not at the same level or frequency as the Project-Based Learning Network (PBLN) teams.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Project Based Learning (PBL) teams cover the same curriculum as the traditional pathway teams? Yes. All West Des Moines Community Schools are accountable to uphold the same Iowa Core standards. Learners in PBL Network schools will be individually evaluated on the standards as part of each project they complete or problem they solve. Can PBL Network learners take electives such as world language, band, orchestra, choir, and art? What about advanced classes and extracurriculars? Yes. Junior high PBL Network learners are only in the pathway for their core classes: humanities (social studies and English), math, and science. PBL Network learners and students in the traditional pathway have lunch and block/electives classes like P.E., band, and Spanish, together. PBL Network learners have the same access to advanced courses and extracurricular activities as all other students. Do PBL Network learners still take tests and quizzes? Yes. While most learning in PBL Network schools and classes occurs within the context of group collaboration, learners are still held accountable for their own understanding of the content taught. Assessment of individual understanding can take many forms, including traditional tests and quizzes. Do PBL Network learners have homework? Yes. Whether it be a part of a project, a reading assignment, or practice problems, PBL Network learners do sometimes have to complete work outside of the classroom.

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8 If a learner doesn’t complete part of a project, how will it impact their group? Most projects and problems are assessed using a variety of measures including group evaluation. For this reason, learners start all projects and problems with group contracts--written agreements that outline how the group will operate, who will be responsible for each task, and what will happen when someone doesn’t do their share of the work. Are projects always given a group grade? Grades for most projects are based on individual assessment of mastery. It is a goal of the facilitators to gather information that indicates the mastery of each member. However, projects and problems may be assessed using group evaluation, which is why we use group contracts. What is the immediate plan for the Project-Based Learning Network (formerly New Tech) in the West Des Moines Community Schools (WDMCS)? WDMCS will continue to add one grade level each year, following our learners who joined the PBL Network during the 2014-15 school year. The PBL Network pathway will be available for grade K-12 by the 2020-21 school year. Please reach out to your principal for more information about the PBL Network classes that will be available at Valley Southwoods and Valley High School. How will the Project Based Learning environment be different from more traditional environment? The PBL Network embraces three key elements that set us apart from traditional teams/schools:

● Engaging and rigorous instruction based on Project- and Problem-Based Learning (PBL and PrBL). Our students learn by doing — completing projects and solving problems that are relevant to their lives.

● A focus on collaborative culture promoting trust, respect, and responsibility. The Project-Based Learning Network empowers students and teachers with exceptional ownership of the learning environment. Our students are given a level of responsibility similar to what they might experience in a professional workplace.

● Technology that is fully applied. Smart use of technology supports our innovative approaches to instruction and culture. All classrooms have a 1:1 computing ratio. Networked computers allow our students to become self-directed learners who no longer rely primarily on teachers or textbooks for knowledge.

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9 Where does the name Project-Based Learning Network come from? When we decided to change the pathway name, we chose a name that would represent its history and future in our district. Project-Based Learning Network highlights the teaching and learning philosophy that drives this pathway, while honoring our connection to and place in the New Tech Network. What is the New Tech Network? New Tech Network (NTN) is a non-profit school development organization that partners with districts and organizations to implement innovative schools. With more than 200 schools nationally, New Tech schools are characterized by a positive school culture that empowers students and teachers, an engaging project-based curriculum, and the integrated use of technology to facilitate relevant teaching and learning. Learn more in the New Tech Network 2017 Impact Report at bit.ly/2017NTNReport

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