Blending Traditional and Online Learning Opportunities Since 2008
Blending Traditional and Online Learning Opportunities Since 2008
In 2007 Michigan Department of Education asked school districts statewide to explore methods for providing additional learning options for students. The plan designed by Wyoming Public Schools was approved by the Michigan Department of Education and allowed for the creation of the Frontiers program. In the past, a school year was based on a specific number of days and hours that students are required to be in the building. The Frontiers program has proven that that a focus on demonstration of knowledge and proficiency is a better measure of outcomes than how many hours a student is in a building. We allow for scheduling flexibility and focus on student progress through the curriculum without the constraints of the traditional seat time requirements in exchange for more accountability for demonstrated learning.
Frontiers students access and experience their curriculum in a blended setting, both on campus and outside of the “brick and mortar” school building and outside of traditional school hours. Certain graduation requirements, such as Physical Education, music programs, or other exploratory options, are still be provided onsite and will require the student to attend and participate.
Students enrolled in the Frontiers program continue to be exposed to curriculum and content presented by highly-qualified instructors and will be required to complete all of the high school graduation requirements for the State of Michigan as well as participate in the MME. Students must be enrolled in six or more courses and will be considered a full-time high school student. If they complete an online course early, they may enroll in another immediately. This also allows for the possibility of early graduation for motivated individuals.
Those enrolled in the Frontiers program are able to participate in all extra curricular activities and sports as long as all eligibility requirements are maintained.
This program allows students to acquire a high school diploma without the traditional “seat time” requirements where a student must be physically present within the building to gain credit. A portion of a student’s time on-task may now be spent online.
Participants will also be assigned a “Mentor Teacher”, staffed by Wyoming High school who is physically present during the school day. Mentors are certified teachers and are also available via e-communication. Mentors will assist students as they progress through their courses successfully and assure that they are following the individual educational program that the students have designed for themselves.
Self-motivated individuals are more apt to be successful in a program of this nature, as well as those who have strong time-management skills. Those wishing to be part of this program will be screened. Not all that apply may be accepted.
Applicants will complete an essay explaining in detail why they feel that this program will allow them to be more successful than the traditional school setting. Please refer to the Application Information page for application procedures and documents.
Successful applicants are subject to rules and regulations of Wyoming Public Schools as outlined in the student handbook. The only exceptions are in regard to attendance requirements that will be based on individual student programming.