Approach to Learning
El Centro is for young people who have previously disengaged from school and are looking for a supportive place where they can earn their high school diploma, explore internships and career opportunities, and graduate with the tools, skills, confidence, and support network to pursue their pathway to success.
We value project-based learning and de-emphasize tests. This means that throughout the school year, students engage in academic study through individual and group projects that allow them to apply important concepts and core knowledge to what they are learning. Students are assessed by presenting what they've learned to their peers and Advisors at the end of each term.
We believe in a whole child approach to education--this means understanding that non-academic components, such as mental health and basic needs security, are just as important to a young person's development as academics.
Our three full-time Resilience Specialists (experienced adolescent mental health professionals) run workshops in Advisories on topics like goal setting and goal attainment, positive communication strategies, and creating emotional safety plans. They also provide one-on-one and group counseling support services and serve as case managers to help students and families locate additional services.