Launch Expeditionary Learning: A Deep Dive into its Charter School Definition

Launch Expeditionary Learning Charter School is more than just a school; it's a philosophy in action. Rooted in the principles of expeditionary learning, Launch aims to cultivate not only academic excellence but also character development and real-world problem-solving skills in its students. Serving students from the diverse communities of Bedford-Stuyvesant, Crown Heights, and surrounding areas in Brooklyn, Launch is committed to providing a world-class education that prepares students for success in college, careers, and life.

The Core of Expeditionary Learning at Launch

At the heart of Launch's educational approach lies the belief that students learn best by doing. This philosophy is deeply intertwined with the Expeditionary Learning (EL) model, a proven educational approach implemented in over 150 schools nationwide. EL emphasizes long-term investigations of real-world challenges, encouraging students to apply their knowledge in practical settings.

Launch's partnership with NYC Outward Bound Schools further enhances this experiential learning approach. Instead of rote memorization, students at Launch delve into relevant subject matter, collaborate with experts in the field, and present their findings to peers, teachers, and parents. This active engagement fosters a deeper understanding and allows students to demonstrate their knowledge in meaningful ways.

Key Elements of Launch's Educational Model

Launch Expeditionary Learning Charter School focuses on several key elements that define its unique approach to education:

Rigorous and Engaging Instruction

Launch is committed to providing instruction that is both rigorous and engaging. The curriculum is designed to challenge students academically while also capturing their interest and motivating them to learn. The school strives to create a learning environment where students are active participants in their own education, rather than passive recipients of information.

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Character Development

Strong character is a cornerstone of the Launch education. The school aims to cultivate essential character traits such as perseverance, responsibility, and respect in its students. Through various activities and experiences, students are encouraged to develop a strong moral compass and to become ethical and responsible citizens.

Real-World Application

Launch emphasizes the application of knowledge in real-world settings. Students are provided with opportunities to connect what they learn in the classroom to real-world challenges and issues. This approach helps students to see the relevance of their education and to develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college and careers.

21st Century Skills

In addition to academic fundamentals, Launch focuses on developing 21st-century skills such as creative problem-solving and collaboration. These skills are essential for success in today's rapidly changing world. Through project-based learning and other innovative teaching methods, students are encouraged to think critically, work collaboratively, and solve complex problems.

Student-Centered Learning

Launch's educational model is student-centered, meaning that learning occurs through play, discovery, exploration, and collaboration on meaningful projects. This approach recognizes that students learn best when they are actively involved in the learning process and when they are given opportunities to explore their interests and passions.

Community Engagement

Launch is deeply committed to serving its community. The school actively seeks out partnerships with local organizations and businesses to provide students with real-world learning experiences and to connect them to the community. This approach helps students to develop a sense of civic responsibility and to become active and engaged members of their community.

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Expeditionary Learning in Action

The principles of expeditionary learning are brought to life through various programs and initiatives at Launch:

Project Green Reach

In 6th grade science, Launch students participate in Project Green Reach in collaboration with the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This program combines hands-on fieldwork with environmental science and leadership development, allowing students to explore the natural world and develop their leadership skills.

Neighborhood Scavenger Hunt

In 9th grade Humanities, students explore Sunset Park through a neighborhood scavenger hunt. This activity is grounded in Launch’s Future 9 competencies, encouraging students to practice inquiry, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving as they navigate their community and make sense of the world around them.

Multi-Day Canoe Expedition

Launch Middle and High students embark on a multi-day canoe expedition in the Delaware Water Gap with partners at New York City Outward Bound and Philadelphia Outward Bound. This experience teaches students essential skills such as communication, conflict resolution, initiative, and leadership, while also fostering resilience and teamwork.

Launch's Growth and Evolution

Founded in 2012, Launch has experienced significant growth and evolution over the years. The school has expanded to serve students in grades 6-8 and is now part of a network of 14 EL Education schools within the NYC Outward Bound Schools network. With a current enrollment of 260 students, Launch is committed to providing a high-quality education to a diverse student body.

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Launch is also embarking on a new chapter of growth and innovation. The school will serve as the first Lab School for Runway Green, a new education and workforce development organization. This partnership will further enhance Launch's ability to provide students with real-world, career-connected learning experiences.

As part of its expansion plans, Launch will relocate to South Brooklyn’s Floyd Bennett Field, an underutilized national recreation area. This move will allow Launch to serve K-12 learners and to create one of the most unique learning environments in the country.

Launch's Impact and Achievements

Launch Expeditionary Learning Charter School has made a significant impact on its students and community. The school's commitment to rigorous instruction, character development, and real-world application has prepared students for success in college, careers, and life.

Launch students have demonstrated impressive academic growth and have developed the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world. The school's focus on 21st-century skills such as creative problem-solving and collaboration has equipped students with the tools they need to thrive in college and beyond.

Launch has also made a positive impact on its community. The school's partnerships with local organizations and businesses have provided students with valuable learning experiences and have connected them to the community. Launch students are active and engaged members of their community, and they are committed to making a difference in the world.

Launch in the Broader Context of Expeditionary Learning

To fully understand Launch's definition as an Expeditionary Learning charter school, it's helpful to consider the broader landscape of EL Education and similar experiential learning models.

EL Education's Core Principles

EL Education, the organization behind the EL model, emphasizes several core principles:

Mastery of Knowledge and Skills: Students demonstrate deep understanding and apply their learning in meaningful ways.
Character: Students develop essential character traits like perseverance, responsibility, and respect.
High-Quality Work: Students produce work that is authentic, purposeful, and of high quality.

These principles align perfectly with Launch's commitment to rigorous instruction, character development, and real-world application.

Examples of Other Expeditionary Learning and Experiential Schools

Launch is not alone in its commitment to expeditionary learning and experiential education. Several other schools across the country have adopted similar models:

Cascades Academy (Oregon): This K-12 independent school focuses on experiential learning, with upper school expeditions that are trimester experiences supported through community partnerships.
Environmental Charter School (Pennsylvania): This K-12 school uses its environmental theme to build systems thinkers and problem-solvers through an "out-the-door" learning approach.
Science and Math Institute (Washington): Located at the Point Defiance Zoo, this STEM school offers built-in internships and outdoor science experiences.
Traveling School (Oregon): A week-long Oregon adventure in the fall.

These schools, like Launch, recognize the importance of hands-on learning, real-world application, and character development.

The Importance of Outdoor Learning

Many expeditionary learning schools, including Launch, place a strong emphasis on outdoor learning. These experiences provide students with opportunities to connect with nature, develop leadership skills, and build resilience.

Examples of outdoor learning programs include:

Canoe expeditions: As Launch demonstrates, these expeditions teach students teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Nature preserves: Schools like Mukilteo Elementary create nature preserves with trails and outdoor classrooms, allowing students to learn about the natural world firsthand.
Outdoor classrooms: Schools like Wildwood Elementary use outdoor classrooms centered in school gardens to engage students in deep thinking about natural systems.

Challenges and Opportunities

As Launch continues to grow and evolve, it faces both challenges and opportunities.

Challenges

Maintaining a strong sense of community: As Launch expands, it will be important to maintain a strong sense of community among students, teachers, and parents.
Ensuring equitable access: Launch is committed to serving a diverse student body. It will be important to ensure that all students have equitable access to the school's resources and opportunities.
Securing funding: As a charter school, Launch relies on public funding and private donations. Securing adequate funding will be essential to the school's long-term sustainability.

Opportunities

Expanding its impact: Launch has the opportunity to expand its impact by serving more students and by sharing its model with other schools.
Innovating and improving: Launch is committed to continuous improvement. The school has the opportunity to innovate and refine its educational model to better meet the needs of its students.
Becoming a national model: Launch has the potential to become a national model for expeditionary learning and community-driven education.

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