04/13/09 Redmond
Redmond will be the first city in the nation to open a proficiency-based charter school that focuses on personalized learning. The new Redmond Proficiency Academy will open September 2009 with a unique model that combines best practices from college-, online- and project-based class learning. The new charter school will be operated by Personalized Learning Inc., a not-for-profit corporation registered in the State of Oregon to operate Oregon public charter schools.
Redmond Proficiency Academy will serve ninth through twelfth grade students who desire a more interest-based or self-designed course of study; or who seek an accelerated course of study; or desire a non-seat time based schedule to meet their personal needs. Students who are interested in this school will need to be an active participant in their own education and desire a personalized program that will move at the rate of their individual ability.
"Research has undoubtedly proven that students learn at different rates, yet traditional high schools still hold to seat time requirements," said Michael Bremont, spokesperson for Redmond Proficiency Academy. "Through innovative programs, positive relationships, and community partnerships, we will provide students a creative learning environment that prepares for success in the global community and meets all state and federal education requirements."
In January 2007, the Oregon State School Board of Education approved the ability to earn a diploma through a "wider use of proficiency" in Oregon schools. With adoption of this policy, credit for courses can now be earned if a student can "demonstrate proficiency inside or outside the classroom, through documentation of prior learning, by examination, or by any combination thereof." Unlike any other proficiency-based programs piloted, the Redmond Proficiency Academy will enable students to create an individualized program based on their needs and with little time spent in a conventional classroom or typical high school environment. The course load may include a mix of internet-based, individual, and group-based instruction. Students may also outline possible internships to obtain both real-world work experience and education at the same time.
This innovative educational program is unlike any other charter school nationwide and will open with approximately 150 students in grades 9-12 and grow to over 400 by the end of its third year. The school was created by a team of advocates consisting of parents, community stakeholders, students, teachers and administrators working in partnership with the Redmond School District.
The entire cost to operate the school will be funded through a Federal Charter School Grant applied for by Personalized Learning Inc. There will be no financial obligation from Redmond School District or Redmond taxpayers.
How and When to Enroll
Like other charter schools, students will be chosen through a lottery system. Registration for the school will take place April 16 - May 8th, 2009. Registration will be available online and by mail, and at additional registration nights. Students must be a resident of Oregon, in grades 9 - 12, and an active participant in furthering their own education. If placed, there is no cost to the student for attending the school. Parent and student information nights will be held at 6:30 p.m. on April 16, 22, and 28 at the Housing Authority Meeting Room, 405 SW 6th St, Redmond (southwest corner of 6th and Deschutes), Parking is available behind the building (west).
School Location
A location has not been finalized yet. At this time, Redmond Proficiency Academy is in negotiations to possibly lease space in the Urban Works building in Redmond. There is no plan to construct a new building, only lease current space available in Redmond.
