Next generation learning reimagines education for the 21st century by giving leaders flexibility and support to meet the needs of all students. Today, nearly every state has created flexibility options, such as waivers from traditional grading or classroom seat time, that are available to districts and schools. Yet many practitioners are not fully aware of or using this powerful resource to help students.
ExcelinEd’s Network of State Innovation Partners is working to change that. Through the network, education leaders are sharing best practices, resources and strategic solutions to advance innovation and new learning models. Over the past six years, ExcelinEd has partnered with Illinois, Indiana, Utah and South Carolina to develop written guides that help local districts leverage flexibility in K-12 learning.
Most recently, ExcelinEd partnered with the Colorado Department of Education to develop Colorado’s Flexibility Guide. The new guide illustrates why the Centennial State has been a leader in promoting innovative models while maintaining the state’s emphasis on local district control.
“Colorado strives to create a more inclusive and effective learning environment by embracing flexibility in public education. This approach acknowledges students’ diverse needs and aspirations, empowers them with relevant skills, and allows schools to take the lead within an ever-changing global landscape. Ultimately, flexibility in public education paves the way for students to thrive academically, personally, and professionally, ensuring they are well-prepared for success in college and career.”
Bill Kottenstette, Executive Director, Schools of Choice
We value the collaborative spirit of the network and a strong, student-centered focus among its participating states. Education leaders can use this latest guide to support innovative learning for Colorado students and, for policymakers nationwide, to explore new ideas and flexibilities that can personalize learning and maximize student success.
Building on longstanding commitments to local control and open enrollment (school choice), in the first decade of the new century, Colorado’s state leaders took several monumental steps to address emerging challenges. Learn more in this guide.
