The following excerpt comes from an article about alternative education models during the pandemic. The Fort Bragg USD community is featured, along with a continuation high school and two community day schools. Read the full article by Mary Makela in the Fort Bragg Advocate-News.

Excerpt from the Article on “Big Picture Learning”

Source: Article by Mary Makela

Just prior to the pandemic and the closing of in-person instruction, the Alternative Education school site, which includes Noyo High School [a continuation high school], Lighthouse Community Day School, and Shelter Cove Community Day School, had shifted to a whole new way of teaching and learning, called Big Picture Learning. This education model is based on students discovering what they are interested in, through a process of self-inquiry and reflection; students then work with their advisor to put together a small team (other school staff, friends, community members, family etc.) to create a Learning Plan.

They then explore their chosen topics, working on projects, culminating in an exhibition (occurring quarterly) they present to their Learning Team. Older students progress to job/career-based learning; students find a local person in the community to work with as their mentor, as they learn a specific job or skill that interests them. This real-world style of learning fully engages students as they see the relevance of what they are learning first-hand. Our hats are off to the Alt. Ed. staff!

Article: “FBUSD board gives thanks to staff, community for help during pandemic” in the Fort Bragg Advocate-New, by author Mary Makela. Find the full article here.