La Crosse Polytechnic School

228 5th Ave S - La Crosse WI - 54601
Type of autonomy arrangement: Instrumentality charter contract
Basic Profile

Opened In

2010

Grades

6-8

Environment

Urban

Type

District - Instrumentality Charter
Autonomies

Program

Determine learning program
Set school-level policy
Determine professional development
Determine authorizer assessments
Determine state assessments

Personnel

Select colleagues
Evaluate colleagues
Transfer or terminate colleagues
Determine tenure policy
Select leaders

Administrative

Determine school budget
Set staff pattern
Determine compensation
Determine teacher workday
Set schedule
Teacher Authority Is...
De Facto

Authority is granted by the goodwill of the district superintendent and the site principal.

About the Learning Program

At the La Crosse Polytechnic project-based learning seldom resembles a traditional classroom. Instead of formal, subject-oriented classes, individuals and groups of students choose, plan, research, and complete academic study and hands-on projects that result in a community-building presentation. Learning experiences take place outside the confines of the school building in the community whenever possible. This learning includes community experts and covers broad academic areas of study. Authentic learning requires students to develop life skills in time management, collaboration, flexibility, innovation, research, problem-solving, accountability, goal orientation, and meaningful applications of acquired knowledge.