Eastern University | Academic | School for Social Change

Eastern University Academy Charter School

A BAEO/Big Picture/Early College High School

The mission of Eastern University Academy Charter School is to provide a wholistic, college-integrated learning community dedicated to the education of each student in the context of his/her unique interests. The school will provide students with an environment of excitement and early expectation through an integrative discovery-based learning experience that will develop logical reasoning, critical thinking, and purpose driven global citizens. The school will graduate self-directed, self-aware learners many of whom will have successfully mastered college level work.

Unique characteristics of this school include:

College Environment

The option of graduating in four years with a high school diploma and up to two years of transferable college credit,
Exposure to a college-oriented culture during all four high school years,
Collaboration between university faculty and high school teachers around core competencies and student learning outcomes,
Rigorous Early College 9-12 curriculum,

Small Classes

A small, nurturing community that eliminates feelings of anonymity and isolation, where all stakeholders have a sense of ownership,
Small class size of 17 students or less makes personalized learning possible, insures competency, continuity and coordination of the teaching team,

Real-World Context

Mastery of academic content standards in a set of real-world contexts through interdisciplinary projects centered around students’ interests,

Supportive Community

An Advisor who stays with the student for all four grades and provides every student with a personal relationship to the school community, ensuring attention to each child’s individual needs,
An existing program with a track record of success in educating diverse students and preparing them for college and for success in the workplace,

Unique Structure and Opportunity

Extended school day and year-round schooling,
Interest-based internship model,
Learning that takes place in both professional and scholarly cultures,
Opportunity for international learning experiences,
Arts-integrated pedagogy that responds to a variety of learning styles,

Innovative Reviews and Assessments

Innovative student assessment through juried exhibitions,
Ongoing program review, research and evaluation,

Commitment to Values

A philosophy of education that emphasizes Eastern’s values for discerning life purpose, pursuing reason and commitment to social justice,
Holistic student development, including global competence, spiritual and character development,
A focus on community and economic development across the curriculum,
Continuous professional development for staff, teachers and parents,
A “restorative justice” approach to discipline and behavior.