Flexschool (Closed 2019)

FlexSchool's mission is to create learning spaces where gifted and twice-exceptional students all over the world are accepted, valued, and supported.

Many highly creative and eager gifted students struggle to thrive in school. Some lose their confidence, their sense of purpose and finally their will to try. Whether they are impacted by a specific learning disability, poor executive functioning, struggle with slow processing speed, anxiety or even intense stubbornness to "do things their way," they are stuck. It`s no wonder. Gifted kids can be a conundrum for schools. While not suitable for every 2e student, FlexSchool can support those who are socially-minded to enjoy a community of peers. At FlexSchool we work with students to accelerate or decelerate coursework as necessary.

FlexSchool is a unique learning network for gifted and twice exceptional (2e) middle and high school students. FlexSchool embraces students for who and where they are, then supports them as they learn to thrive. Small, ability-based discussion classes taught by subject experts ensure meaningful conversations and the opportunity to ask high-level questions. The faculty, trained and supported by learning specialists and mental health professionals, focuses on critical thinking in all areas of learning; a "toolbox" concept emphasizing how to learn rather than an "encyclopedia" concept emphasizing specific material (though all core bases are covered in depth). Students are supported and encouraged to study topics that interest them with faculty mentors. FlexSchool is also a safe and fun environment for accelerated students who want to "join in" rather than "stand out."

FlexSchool campuses are deliberately embedded in the community to use local resources. Examples of this include experiential learning in the local area every Friday (FlexFridays), meaningful community service, and opportunities for students to find local mentors and activities that both support and extend their interests.

Importantly, homework is relevant and minimized at FlexSchool. It is not seen as a gateway to a grade. Executive functioning, the process of mental control and self-regulation that helps us organize and plan, is explicitly taught and practiced. Recognizing that many students live outside of our region, FlexSchool is designed to welcome students virtually into our classrooms through our Cloud Classroom video conferencing technology. Ifprivateinstruction is needed, students "remote in" with their teacher 1:1. FlexSchool has had great success with remote students from as far away as Florida, California, andSwitzerland!

Academics

• Subject experts with training in learning challenges, executive functioning skills, emotional support, and customizing curricula for individual students. All faculty trained by Stephen Chou Psy.D., Norma Hafenstein Ph.D., Heidi Molbak M.S. NCC, and a learning specialist on supporting students` second exceptionalities.
• Student/faculty ratio of 4:1
• Minimized, relevant homework
• Study hall & homework club after school so students leave school free to pursue other interests

Experiential Learning

• FlexFridays are a mix of hands-on learning, invited speakers, and school trips.
• Year-long project on a topic of student`s choice addresses the question: What problem in the world do you want to address.
• An annual week-long trip to Hulbert Outdoor Center in Vermont for environmental science, group challenges, ropes course, and survival skills. Parents of anxious students are welcome.

Environment

• Teachers respect students` abilities
• Questions are welcomed (that`s why we have subject experts!)
• Welcoming and kind student population
• Safe atmosphere so students can take academic risks

College Counseling provided by expert counselors.