Before the read
Instead of memorizing facts, students explore real-world problems and collaborate through hands-on projects that connect academics with purpose.
At the Detroit Achievement Academy, even the youngest students are empowered to study changemakers and take real action to make a difference.
Turning students into engaged citizens, ready to change the world.
Using the Expeditionary Learning model, the Detroit Achievement Academy is one of the highest performing schools in the country. For an example of their innovative learning model, students as young as second grade use their studies to answer the question, “how can a citizen make a positive impact on a community?”
Viewing historic changemakers through the lens of narrative nonfiction, young scholars will seek out modern-day Detroit citizens who are solving real problems in their community in the here and now.
This example of a learning expedition reflects the Detroit Achievement Academy’s principles, in emphasizing social interaction as integral to the learning process. They emphasize that knowing students—individually, culturally, and developmentally—is as important as the curriculum. Rather than rote memorization, their approach emphasizes, “How the adults at school work together to accomplish their shared mission is as important as individual competencies; lasting change begins with the adult community.”
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The Wrap
- Detroit Achievement Academy uses the Expeditionary Learning model to emphasize community, collaboration, and real-world application.
- Students engage in learning expeditions that connect core subjects with civic impact, starting as early as second grade.
- The school views each student holistically, valuing personal, cultural, and developmental context alongside academic growth.
- Historical narratives are used to inspire students to identify and engage with contemporary Detroit changemakers.
- The curriculum encourages students to ask powerful questions, like how citizens can help solve community problems.
- Teachers and staff model collaboration, focusing on shared goals and systemic change within the school culture.
- This approach supports the development of civically engaged citizens who are prepared to lead with empathy and action.
