Social Justice through Expeditionary Learning
John J. Duggan Academy is an Expeditionary Learning (EL) through Social Justice Magnet school for students in grades 6 to 12 that emphasizes high achievement through active learning, inquiry, reflection, character development and teamwork. Here, students participate in hands-on, project-based learning that brings them out into the world to understand how the things they learn in school apply in real life through authentic learning experiences. To support our Social Justice theme, career pathways in Public Health, Criminal Justice, Computer Science /Engineering and Education will provide our high school students with the skills to be advocates for the environment and all those who inhabit our planet. Advanced Placement courses, dual enrollment in college courses and internships will further strengthen their college and career readiness.
We also work hard to help our students develop important character traits that will serve them throughout their lives, no matter what academic or career path they choose.
We also work hard to help our students develop important character traits that will serve them throughout their lives, no matter what academic or career path they choose.
Duggan Habits of Scholarship
The Duggan Habits of Scholarship (HOS) of respect, responsibility, quality, and perseverance guide interactions for all students and staff and help to form positive relationships and school culture. Our aim is to ensure that Duggan graduates are not just successful academically but that they become responsible, inspired, and compassionate contributors to our ever-changing world.
Crew
Crew is an important part of the day at John J. Duggan Academy. You could call crew an enhanced advisory block. The name comes from an Expeditionary Learning phrase, "We are crew not passengers". Students works closely together with their crew teacher to build relationships and support their academic and HOS goals. Students stay with the same crew teacher throughout their time at Duggan providing an opportunity for students to be known very well by at least one adult in the building. Each crew has its own identity and theme and is associated with a social justice cause---ethical treatment of animals, the soup kitchen, clothes for the homeless, hats, scarves and gloves for children in the community. During crew teachers work with students on their portfolios for Student Led Family Conferences.
Student Led Family Conferences
Student Led Family Conferences are held twice a year. Students collect high quality work and assemble a portfolio of their work supported by their teacher in crew. Family members are invited to the presentation of the students work, the review of their academic and HOS goals and the planning of next steps through the reflection process.
Intensives
Intensives are mini courses that take place the last two days of the school year. The topics are selected by students and teachers. A catalog of course offerings is provided and students ballot for first, second and third choice.