The mission of Launch Expeditionary Learning Charter School (LELCS) is as follows: “Launch students will develop the academic skills and strength of character necessary to thrive in college, contribute to their communities and excel in their careers.”
LELCS will be an experiential and project-based learning school based on five core practices: learning expeditions, active pedagogy, culture and character, leadership and school improvement, and structures. The School will use formative, authentic and NYS State assessments to provide the school community with data to drive instruction.
As an Expeditionary Learning school, LELCS will be linked with a network of 150 schools across the nation and with nine successful traditional Expeditionary Learning public schools in New York City (including Washington Heights Expeditionary Learning School).
A significant feature of LELCS will be the extended day and an extended school year. LELCS will offer a 190-day instructional calendar, plus 16 days for planning and professional development. The instructional day will begin at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 3:48 p.m. LELCS will provide an after school program from 3:50 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Instruction at LELCS will emphasize “a strong connection to the world, with a focus on linking the classroom and the outside world, fully drawing on school and community resources.” LELCS will provide expanded time for “in-depth case studies, field work, teacher collaborations, and multi-disciplinary connections.” Instruction at LELCS will include inquiry-based case studies, integrated math projects connected to interdisciplinary learning expeditions, the writing process, science exploration based on a synthesis of mathematical and literacy skills, and social studies expeditions that facilitate the formation of independent connections and conclusions by students.
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