Project-based learning (PBL) approaches seek to challenge the grammar of schooling by providing opportunities for students to: (1) explore meaningful questions using multiple disciplinary lenses; (2) read, interpret, and produce a wide range of texts as they engage in disciplinary inquiry; and (3) develop and use a range of social-emotional skills…

The purpose of this commentary is to explore the intersection of creativity, civic engagement, and literacy instruction that takes into consideration real-world concerns. The authors define and consider recent work on creativity and utilize Westheimer's model of citizenship to frame an example of adolescents engaged in both purposeful literacies…

The achievement of deep learning by secondary students requires teaching approaches that draw students into task commitment, integrated curricula, and analytical thinking. By using real-world data sets in project based instructional units, teachers can guide students in analyzing, interpreting, and reporting quantitative data. Working with…

Raising academic standards has been part of the education policy discourse for decades. As early as the 1990s, states and school districts attempted to raise student achievement by developing higher standards and measuring student progress according to more rigorous benchmarks. However, the caliber of the standards--and their assessments--varied…

To keep pace with accelerating technology and workplace expectations, high school and technology center students need access to high-level programs and courses that open the doors to further education and careers. The Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) and nine states have launched a far-reaching program to provide rigorous and relevant…