From a press release:
Franklin School of Innovation announces lottery
For Immediate Release – Buncombe County’s new charter middle and high school is preparing for its second educational lottery. It is planned for Monday, April 13th, 6:30 p.m. at the Days Inn, 201 Tunnel Road, near the Asheville Mall.
The lottery is a random selection of applicants, held in compliance with North Carolina state law. Applicants will be notified of the results of the lottery by email or mail, and results will be posted on the school’s website.
Executive Director Michelle Vruwink says the need for the lottery is a good indicator of the school’s successful launch. “We are excited to have so many of our students returning next year, and to have strong demand at all grade levels. It shows community support for the vision of the school.”
The school follows the Expeditionary Learning model developed by Outward Bound and the Harvard School of Education, which emphasizes hands-on project-based learning, a spirit of inquiry and critical thinking, and strong character development. In January, the school moved to its permanent location on Sardis Road in Enka. The site, 13+ acres purchased for the school by the Glass Foundation, lends itself to the school model. “ We are planning lots of experiential projects to celebrate our new space” said Vruwink. “Our students will truly leave a personal mark on our school.”
Open Enrollment ended March 28, but applications will be accepted on a continued basis. Applications received after the lottery will be placed on a waiting list in the order of receipt. The school is accepting applications for grades 6 – 10, and will add grade 11 and grade 12 in subsequent years.
Facts about the Franklin School of Innovation
The Franklin School of Innovation is a free public charter school serving students in grades 6-12 in the Asheville and Buncombe County region. The school is open to any student eligible for enrollment in North Carolina public schools.
Opened in August 2014 with grades 6-9, adding a grade each year. At full capacity, FSI will serve 288 students in middle school and 448 students in high school.
Curriculum follows the Expeditionary Learning model developed by Outward Bound and the Harvard School of Education, which emphasizes hands-on project-based learning, a spirit of inquiry and critical thinking, and strong character development.
The Expeditionary Learning model also incorporates meaningful family engagement, with student-led conferences and passage portfolios in which students present their learning and achievements.
Teachers at FSI participate in an integrated program of professional learning, with frequent collaboration and shared planning, observation and feedback. Teachers develop multidisciplinary “Learning Expeditions” which engage students in long-term, real-world learning opportunities across the disciplines. Civic engagement and service learning is incorporated through the Expeditions.
The Franklin School of Innovation is not-for-profit organization organized under the laws of North Carolina, with 501(c)3 status pending, filed in October 2013. All work done to organize the school to date has been accomplished by unpaid volunteers.
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