ntrinsic Schools is a small charter network in Chicago that is implementing a revolutionary new model for public education that prepares all students for postsecondary success and world-changing endeavors. We started Intrinsic to reimagine the learning experience for middle and high school students based on the beliefs that young people learn best when they collaborate, feel a deep sense of belonging, and set and monitor progress toward individualized goals. Our model systematically teaches students to think, solve, communicate and reflect while also building Empathy, Perseverance, Identity and Curiosity - our EPIC Core Values. We flex time and space in both of our schools, redefine the role of teachers, and use technology in new ways to ensure every student receives tailored instruction, and eventually graduates with their own personalized postsecondary plan that is dedicated to their own interests, goals, and choices.
Our approach is focused on the whole child, and can look different than in other public schools - in part because of our dual focus on student gains in academics and personal agency. To support this, we use mastery-forward grading; a weekly Choice Day (C Day) for all students; Student-Led Conferences (SLCs) that connect students, teachers, and families three times each year; and Advisory classes comprised of groups of students who meet daily all four years of high school and essentially grow up together, under the guidance of one four-year advisor. Our school culture deliberately prioritizes student voices and relationships - with each other and with adults - while also having very high expectations of them. To support this work, we rely on restorative practices as well as consequences, when necessary, to ensure a safe and joyful learning environment for all students.