NAEA Best Practice Model School

The National Alternative Education Association (NAEA) named Independence Nontraditional School as the first school to be designated a model of best practices. The school received this honor based on its use and implementation of NAEA best practices to develop a model for other non-traditional schools in this country.

“This recognition is important because it serves to exemplify the excellent work that our students and those who serve them do in all aspects of teaching and learning,” said Dr. Robert Eichorn, Director of Independence Nontraditional . “It exemplifies what we see in our students and each other every day.”

The practices are woven into the foundation of the school, including its vision: we develop integrity, intellect and ingenuity in everyone. Guided by this vision, staff work to develop individualized plans and provide streamlined support that ultimately better contributes to student success.

“The teachers here are the best I’ve ever had. I got more help during my time at Independence than I ever got before coming here,” said 10th grader Jayda Jones. year at Independence. “I am comfortable here because of the relationships the staff create with the students. I know I can go to my counsellor, my administrator or my teachers and get the help I need when I need it. need.

Independence will be recognized at the NAEA’s national conference in St. Louis, Missouri in October. Staff are also invited to present, as they continue to set an example for other non-traditional programs that continue to develop their educational practices and student support.

“With [the recognition] then comes the responsibility of collaborating with these other [nontraditional] schools, providing supportive resources and best practices, and liaising in a collaborative way,” added Dr. Eichorn.