In the heart of the City of Schenectady School District, a groundbreaking educational concept is taking root, and it’s called Big Picture Schenectady. This innovative satellite high school is reshaping traditional education by embracing a philosophy that places students at the center of their own learning journeys. With a focus on personalized, experiential learning, community engagement, and strong partnerships, Big Picture Schenectady is poised to redefine the way we think about education.

At its core, Big Picture Schenectady believes that students thrive when they are actively engaged in meaningful, rigorous work within a culture that prioritizes care, respect, and a sense of belonging. This philosophy of learning forms the foundation of the school’s approach and sets it apart from conventional educational institutions.

One of the key features of this new satellite high school is the concept of Individual Learning Plans (ILPs). Students here have the unique opportunity to craft ILPs that allow them to explore their world, discover their strengths, passions, and experiences, and contemplate how they can influence it. This approach fosters independent thinking and empowers students to pursue their interests.

Experiential learning is another hallmark of Big Picture Schenectady. Through hands-on experiences within the community, students gain valuable college and career skills. The school actively engages with the community to co-create learning experiences that are not only relevant but also impactful. This approach helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

Families are considered essential partners in the education of students at Big Picture Schenectady. The school values a strong partnership between families and the institution, ensuring that every aspect of a student’s secondary education is enriched. This collaborative approach reinforces the school’s commitment to nurturing academic, social, and individual growth in every student.

Big Picture Schenectady is dedicated to innovation and personalization. By harnessing the resources of the community, the school nurtures the growth of each student, preparing them for success in college and career. This commitment to personalized education is evident in how students link their individual learning plans with New York State learning standards and performance indicators.

Students at Big Picture Schenectady also graduate with a New York State Regents diploma, ensuring that they meet the same academic requirements as their peers in traditional school settings. This commitment to educational standards demonstrates the school’s dedication to academic excellence.

A key component of the school’s approach is the daily 80-minute advisory period, where students work on projects aligned with their interests and international Big Picture Learning Standards. This period allows students to apply their knowledge in practical contexts and develop vital skills, including communication and presentation skills through regular exhibitions and presentations.

Big Picture Schenectady goes beyond the classroom, encouraging students to explore their community and interests during “leave to learn” opportunities. These experiences foster real-world connections and broaden students’ horizons.

From 9th grade onward, students are paired with caring mentors in fields of interest and participate in internships, gaining hands-on experience that prepares them for future careers. Additionally, students have the option to earn college credit through Smart Scholar opportunities, providing a head start on their higher education journey.

Seniors at Big Picture Schenectady engage in Capstone projects, where they demonstrate their culmination of knowledge and skills in a significant and meaningful way. These projects are a testament to the school’s commitment to authentic assessment and real-world application of learning.

Big Picture Schenectady is leading the charge in transforming education. With a focus on personalized learning, community engagement, and strong partnerships, this satellite high school is preparing students not just for success in college and career but for success in life. It’s an exciting new educational concept that is reshaping the future of education in the City of Schenectady School District and beyond.