Giving Compass' Take:

• Tom Vander Ark and Emily Liebtag highlight the work of Larry Rosenstock, Founder of High Tech High, connecting school with the local ecosystem to enhance the learning experience.

• How would this model look in different places across the country? What assets could schools in your community use to enhance their programs? 

• Learn more about place-based education. 

Winsome, invigorating and inspiring are all words to describe Larry Rosenstock, Founder of High Tech High (HTH).

Without a doubt, this man has dreams and knows how to make them come to reality. The captivating carpenter who had a dream to start a school where learning is a continuation of the city or place where the school is located. Where students use what is around them and within themselves, to deepen their understanding of where they live, where they come from and where they want to go in life. The “place” is your “palette.”

Stumbling upon an old naval base that San Diego was begging for someone to repurpose, Larry decided it was the perfect place for a school. Rich with history and scars, this place would be perfect for students to build, design and work with their hands on integrated projects. The now thriving area of Point Loma in Liberty likely came to be successful because of the school campus.

Students frequently engage in projects tied to the local community and environment, ranging from exploring the local watershed to recreating field guides of local parks.

Read the full article about connecting school with the local ecosystem by Tom Vander Ark and Emily Liebtag at Getting Smart.