SMALL LEARNING COMMUNITIES
JOLIET TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL
History and Rationale
The mission of Joliet Township High School, a diverse and unified community of choice, is to empower every student to acquire and apply the attributes to compete and contribute positively in our community and global society by providing a rigorous, relevant and innovative education in a safe, supportive academy environment through a quality, caring and dedicated staff working in partnership with family and community.
The research demonstrates smaller learning communities positively impact student achievement and behavior.
Description & Overview
Joliet Township’s primary goal is to ensure High Expectations by Getting All Students to Proficiency. The strategies employed by Joliet Township High School to meet that goal include incorporating rigor and relevance into the curriculum and building relationships throughout the school and community.
A college prep curriculum will afford rigor for all students. Joliet Township’s small learning communities will focus on student interests and aptitudes in order to provide a curriculum that will both challenge and motivate all our students. Electives will be grouped in a sequence of courses that will provide students with a focus and advanced knowledge and skills.
The Academy concept will provide students with a sense of relevance across the curriculum. Too many students do not understand why they are in school or how particular courses help prepare them for college and their careers. Academies will provide the critical link.
The Academy Concept and Advisory program assist in enhancing relationships.
The small schools concept will allow teachers and students to get to know each other and build relationships.
Upon entry to an Academy, each student will be assigned to an Academy Advisor for the school year.
In order to increase career awareness and community relationships, Academy students will participate in a job shadowing experience during the 10th grade.
Academy students will also participate in an internship program during their 11th/12th grade.