The John Dewey Academy of Learning: A Personalized Approach to Education
The John Dewey Academy of Learning (JDAL) in Green Bay, Wisconsin, stands out as a public charter school committed to providing a personalized and project-based learning experience for students in grades 6 through 12. Since its founding in 2010, JDAL has strived to create a unique educational environment that fosters student independence, real-world application of knowledge, and a strong sense of community. Operating in its current location on Cherry Street since 2019, the academy serves Green Bay and the surrounding areas.
Innovative Project-Based Learning
At the heart of JDAL's educational philosophy is project-based learning. This approach empowers students to take charge of their education through in-depth research on subjects that ignite their curiosity. Students submit project proposals outlining the product, the process, and the standards they will develop or master. They have a voice in determining the "how" and "when" of their curriculum, and their learning is not dictated by rigid time constraints. Credit is awarded only when projects meet established standards, emphasizing mastery over mere "seat time." This commitment to project-based learning allows students to engage in real-world experiences, utilizing the world around them as their curriculum.
The emphasis on project-based learning results in a tangible product and an audience beyond the teacher. Serious attention is given to quality and organization in student projects. This authenticity and choice create conditions for the development of intrinsic motivation.
A Collaborative Community
JDAL fosters a small, cooperative environment where students and staff collaborate to achieve common goals. The school's structure deviates from traditional high schools, resembling an elementary or primary school model where students spend the majority of their day in a single room, known as an "advisory." As of October 2019, there were five advisories, each staffed with a teacher familiar with a particular subject or subjects.
To complement project work, students can participate in seminars, short-term engagements that run from a few weeks to an entire semester. These seminars are taught by staff, students, parents, and community members, under the supervision of advisors.
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Preparing for the Future
JDAL is dedicated to preparing students for college and beyond. The school provides students with personalized assistance in registering for the SAT and helps them prepare for the ACT. By senior year, students often focus on a capstone project, a culmination of their learning that typically involves over 500 hours of work.
A Focus on Service
Service learning is an integral part of the JDAL experience. Students are required to complete a minimum of 150 service hours by graduation and participate in various service learning campaigns throughout the school year.
The School's Facilities
In 2026, JDAL moved into its new, modern building on Cherry Street. The building features open, collaborative areas designed to facilitate project-based learning. A recent grant enabled the school to build a state-of-the-art "Maker Space" equipped with 3D printers and laser cutters, providing students with the tools to pursue their research projects. The Cherry Street School was converted from an old office building and also temporarily houses the other charter school in Green Bay, the Northeast Wisconsin School of Innovation.
Academic Performance and Rankings
John Dewey Academy of Learning is ranked #13,427-17,901 in the National Rankings. Schools are ranked on their performance on state-required tests, graduation and how well they prepare students for college. In , proficiency data indicated that 6% of students were proficient in math and 27% in reading. The school's graduation rate is 94%, which is somewhat below the state median.
A History of Growth and Adaptation
JDAL was formed by a contract with the Green Bay Area Public School District in 2010. It initially opened in the former St. Peter and Paul School building, leased from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Green Bay. Recognizing the limitations of the original facility, the school undertook the JDAL 2.0 project, involving students, staff, and district administration in designing a new learning environment.
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Multiple designs for renovation and new construction were proposed, with the architects incorporating design elements for each in the final project. The New Construction design was the most popular with students at the time, as accessed by a school administered survey. The Remodel Design was the second most popular among students, although the district failed to ever reveal which space it was intended to fill. The West High School Design was by far the least popular among students, as it involved the loss of autonomy by integration into available space at nearby Green Bay West High School. Despite the student's opposition, this plan had wide district support because of the ease of retrofitting, and the fact that the district would not need to acquire or maintain further property.
Admissions and Operations
JDAL operates on a five-year contractual term, the maximum allowed by Wisconsin state law. It is an application-only school, accepting students in grades 6-12, although senior students are rarely accepted.
Key Features of the JDAL Approach
- Project-Based Learning: Students drive their own learning through in-depth research and real-world application.
- Personalized Education: The curriculum adapts to individual student needs and interests.
- Flexible Scheduling: A non-traditional calendar allows students to learn at their own pace.
- Community Engagement: Students, staff, parents, and community members collaborate to create a supportive learning environment.
- Real-World Experiences: Students engage with the world around them as part of their curriculum.
- Focus on Mastery: Credit is awarded based on demonstrated competence, not just time spent in the classroom.
Doors open at 8:15 AM for student arrival. School session starts in September 1st week and ends in June 3rd week.
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