EXTRA: Springfield City schools making changes at Keifer Academy
“The project-based learning experience involves sustained inquiry and deeper research that kids probably don’t get in the average classroom,” Cross said.
The School of Innovation in the Springfield City School District used to be called Keifer Academy. The school changed the name and the mission of the school over the summer, but Cross said students in the school building have been learning through project-based learning for some time.
“The students have told us this is a fun place to be but it is also challenging.,” Cross said. “They have to learn about research kind of quickly so they are better able to prepare for their presentation but the bigger piece is they are going into deeper learning based upon their own interest and many students try to pursue careers from their interests through the project.
There are about 52 students at the school of innovation, Cross said.
Many of the projects presented by students are important, he said.
“They are tied to changes in the community or perhaps changes in their own lives,” Cross said. “The main thing really is using their voice and the tool of research and sustained inquiry to better your life.”
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