An experimental school in Detroit is trying something new with its seventh and eighth graders.
Palmer Park Preparatory Academy is the first “teacher-led” school in Michigan. It’s instituted a program that puts students into customized reading and math classes based on their abilities instead of their grade level.
Ann Crowley is one of the school’s founders.
"We had to get the schedule set up so that the three teachers in those subject areas taught side-by-side at the same time, and also have a common planning period together," said Ann Crowley, one of the school's founders. She added:
"The logistics of it, with over 250 kids, was pretty intense."
Crowley says students are constantly monitored for improvement so they don’t get stuck in an instructional track for low-performing students.
An official with the school district says the program could be a model for other schools in Detroit.
