Extended Learning Programs
ELO Overview at PMHS
| Primary acquisition of knowledge and skills through instruction or study outside of the traditional classroom methodology. |
Extended Learning Opportunities (ELOs) are non-traditional educational learning experiences which are interest/talent based that provide students opportunities to acquire knowledge and skills through hands-on learning adventures outside the classroom. Partnered with a community mentor, highly qualified teacher (HQT), and ELO Coordinator, students are highly engaged in rigorous learning opportunities that are intended to address personal relevance while naturally building critical relationships between students and their community. Students engaged in ELOs are required to demonstrate mastery of identified competencies (learning goals). In order to successfully demonstrate mastery of a competency, students must maintain a reflection and application journal, engage in a variety of learning activities designed through a collaborative process of the ELO team, complete a number of formative and summative assessments, create a final product that provides value to the ELO site, and take part in a final presentation that is given to an ELO evaluation team.
Credit is based on the number of competencies and amount of time engaged in the ELO. Competency grading is based on a 4 point rubric. In order to gain full credit for the ELO, mastery must be demonstrated on all competencies; this is done by earning at least Proficient on each. (Students’ not earning at least Proficient will have an opportunity to edit, revise, and improve their work to bring up their rating.)
ELO Make Up
| ELOs are: | ELOs are Not: |
| About rigorous academic standards based on standards and competencies | Intended to be an easy way for students to achieve credit |
| An extension of the classroom | To remove a student from a classroom |
| A way for teachers to individualize instruction and share their passions | Intended to replace local teachers |
| About demonstrating growth and achievement | Based on amount of time spent on task |
| An expansion beyond the school building and into the community | Always school-based |
| Before and after school, on weekends, during vacations, and during the summer | Always between the opening and closing school bells |
| Applying knowledge | Memorizing facts |