EDUCATION

Collaborative project based learning combined with rigorous curriculum gives CCS students the tools to deepen their knowledge and apply their classroom learning to real-world issues.

Evidence shows the life-long benefits of hands-on learning. Students involved in dynamic projects gain lasting personal growth and enrichment, which leads to greater career satisfaction and engagement

On a normal day at CCS, students will explore real-world problems and challenges, framed by essential / driving questions, using creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and collaboration, through a learner-centered approach.

In order to create high-quality projects, teachers utilize a framework focused on what CCS calls the 7 A’s of Project Design. With these 7 A’s, our projects lend rich opportunities for learning at every step of the process.

Projects engage students in solving semi-structured problems, calling for competencies expected in high-performance work organizations, including teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. These skills prepare our students for the real-world job market where all of these applied learning skills are essential.

In This Section

The CCS 7 A’s are described below:

Academic Rigor

Projects will address key learning standards and help students develop habits of mind and work associated with academic and professional disciplines. This helps our students develop skills like critical thinking and practical application.

Authenticity

Projects are designed with an essential question that provides purpose and passion by connecting project work to real-world issues that engage students. This allows our students to authentically retain the topics and subjects that they lean in the classroom.

Applied Learning

Active Exploration

Projects extend beyond the classroom and connect to students to the world beyond the classroom and the real-world lessons they will need for their futures.

Adult Connections

Projects connect students with adult mentors and coaches from a wider community. This creates opportunity for our students to explore careers along with opening doors for future business connections.

Assessment Practices

Projects include quality assessment practices that provide opportunities for students to receive relevant feedback during and after their project work.

Applied School Pillars

Projects engage students in at least two of the school pillars with each project:

Fine Arts and Creativity

Leadership through Outdoor Education

Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship

Project Based Learning