Philosophy

Elder Dr. Whiskeyjack school was designed with 21st century learning in mind.  The building has spaces that allow flexible, engaging and collaborative learning experiences. We will offer rigorous academic programming including Advanced Placement, and we will offer a variety of courses, extra curricular activities, athletic and arts experiences that allow students to become confident, resilient and empowered learners who are well prepared to handle the challenges of the future. Our innovative Career and Technology electives will include culinary arts and automotives in state of the art facilities.

Our school philosophy is grounded in the idea that high school should provide ‘inspiration to meet student aspirations’ and provide opportunities to explore various career pathways in a safe, inclusive, welcoming and healthy environment.  In the words of our namesake, “Be proud of who you are, but be gentle with each other.”

We will provide: 

1. Exceptional Academics
2. Thriving Arts and Athletics 
3. Engaging Electives
4. Exemplary school culture defined by our namesake

As we strive to provide exceptional experiences for students, teaching staff will engage in reflective practice and collaboration to meet these key goals for student learning: 

Critical thinking and Creativity - our goal is to create opportunities for students to be creative, take risks, and solve problems.  We endeavor to build the character virtue of resilience and a growth mindset in our learners.  We want students to push through minor discomfort and be adaptable, determined and confident.  

Collaboration and Inclusivity - to solve complex problems now and in the future, students need to be ‘we minded’ and have an empathetic, inclusive, and open mindset.  We strive to instill character and communication skills in students to enhance their ability to be effective collaborators.   

Personal growth and wellbeing - we encourage and support students to take on new challenges, and make informed and healthy choices for themselves, the school and wider community and the planet. 

Rigorous Teaching and learning - our lessons will be tightly aligned and focussed on curricular outcomes. We will pay close attention to the front matter of the curriculum that focuses on complex skills, innovative approaches and critical 21st century learning competencies.