YOUNG EXPLORERS ACADEMY

Young Explorers Academy

A cohort of passionate students working together to create a better world

The Young Explorers Academy empowers students with four cornerstone skills essential for creating positive change in our world.

Four Cornerstone Skills

Critical Thinking
Creativity
Communication
Collaboration

Our Approach

While enrolled in this academy, students will be charged with finding creative solutions to authentic, real-world problems. Students will use primary and secondary resources, research selected topics, and apply their knowledge and ideas to the problem-solving model.

Problem-Solving Model

  • Identify Challenges
  • Select an Underlying Problem
  • Produce Solution Ideas
  • Generate and Select the Criteria
  • Apply the Criteria
  • Develop an Action Plan

Student Opportunities

In this academy, students will learn to create solutions to complex problems, evaluate them, and turn them into a workable action plan. Opportunities for students include:

  • Opportunity to participate in Project Soapbox and Future Problem Solvers
  • Field experiences at governmental buildings and landmarks
  • Opportunity to become a member of the Principal Advisory Board and the SLT
  • Opportunity to meet elected officials and district decision-makers

Example Class: Local Leader of Change

This class provides students with the opportunity to identify real problems and implement real solutions in our community. Students will have a chance to select a problem based on their interests. Problems can range from environmental to social issues — students will decide the focus of their project. Students will use primary and secondary resources, research selected topics, then apply their knowledge and ideas to the problem-solving model. A teacher will assist, guide, facilitate, and provide feedback to students on their work. At the end of the class, all students will present their project to a panel of experts.

Student Outcomes

At the end of three years, Young Explorers will be able to:

Use the problem-solving framework effectively
Create a sound action plan for change
Present a strong argument with supporting evidence
Listen with empathy and understanding
Understand multiple perspectives
Advocate for the well-being and betterment of all
Work collaboratively with others
Positioned Script