Expeditionary Learning

The Expeditionary Learning (EL) model challenges students to think critically and take active roles in their classrooms and communities, resulting in higher achievement and greater engagement in school. Expeditionary Learning schools inspire the motivation to learn. EL engages teachers and students in new levels of focus and effort, and transforms schools into places where students and adults become leaders of their own learning.

Expeditionary Learning is…

The Design Principles of Expeditionary Learning – Coming soon!

Expeditionary Learning officially approved Centennial for its program in March 2013. Centennial is the first district-run DPS neighborhood school (not charter) to implement Expeditionary Learning for its students.

Learn more about Expeditionary Learning:

Colorado EL Schools


Student-Led Conferences

In place of the traditional parent-teacher conference, your child will lead his or her conferences. During this conference your child will show you their work, reflect on his or her progress, and receive feedback. You, your child, the classroom teacher, and perhaps a specialist, will all participate in the conference.

Student-Led Conferences are a very important way to engage children in understanding and taking ownership of their learning. We believe this conference structure will support us building better communication and stronger relationships with all families. As parents and family members, you are critical partners in helping support your child’s learning and growth.

In Expeditionary Learning schools, Student-Led Conferences are a critical part of the yearly routines and rituals that all families participate in. Holding Student Led Conferences ECE-5 is an extremely important step for our school on our journey to full EL implementation. Furthermore, Student Led Conferences support the growth and development of your children.


Redesign

EL Education Case Study: Centennial Elementary

EL Education has published a Case Study focusing on the implementation of the Expeditionary Learning curriculum at our school since 2013. This case study highlights the connect between culture and testing data, specifically how our strong classroom culture supports growth in reading and high-quality student work.

Redesign Process

The redesign process began back in November 2012 with a series of open discussions about Centennial’s future. Parent and staff input was an integral part of developing a plan to implement the school redesign approved by the Denver Board of Education in December 2012. Input taken from both CSC and community meetings focused on implementing an academic program that gave Centennial a specialized focus- an approach similar to other programs at popular high-achieving elementary schools in Northwest Denver.

Expeditionary Learning

For this reason the CSC came to consensus on a plan to form a partnership with Expeditionary Learning. Centennial became a neighborhood Expeditionary Learning school at the start of the 2013-14 school year.

Collaborative School Design Meetings

Centennial hosted a series of four meetings to ensure all stakeholders were able to contribute to the new school design. Meeting notes: