Student-Centered Learning

MPS Student-Centered Learning Vision: To provide student-centered learning environments which will lead to success in college and career readiness and civic life for all students.

Meriden Public Schools Awarded $450,000 Grant to Advance Commitment to Student-Centered Learning

Meriden, April 3, 2013 In recognition of the Meriden Public School's commitment to advancing student-centered learning, The Nellie Mae Education Foundation (NMEF), the largest charitable organization in New England focused exclusively on education, announced today that it is awarding the Meriden school district a 20-month, $450,000 grant through its grants initiative, New Approaches in Urban Districts (New Approaches). The grant will help Meriden build capacity to enable more students to achieve at a higher level, and meet the Common Core State Standards through the implementation of systemic approaches to student-centered learning.

Meriden was selected along with Chelsea, MA; Hartford, CT; Manchester, CT; New Haven, CT; Providence, RI and Revere, MA from 22 applicants and has already demonstrated a commitment to pursue student-centered learning. The 20-month grant will support systemic remodeling efforts that will better equip students with the critical thinking, problem solving and communications skills necessary to succeed in the 21st century.

"We are thrilled to have been selected by the Nellie Mae Education Foundation for this exciting opportunity to redesign our high school learning environments. The principal, staff and students at both Maloney and Platt High Schools look forward to creating blended learning environments that embrace online, student-centered and experiential learning."

New Approaches was developed based on extensive research and consultations with superintendents of urban New England school districts and leading experts in urban education. Defined by NMEF, "student-centered learning" extends beyond the traditional school calendar and classroom walls, requiring students to take shared responsibility for learning in a variety of settings, including real-world situations and projects where teachers act as coach and guide. The grants will help districts grow and strengthen specific student-centered approaches like blended learning designs and performance-based assessment systems. This initiative also will support the formation of a cross-district learning network (CDL) that will provide opportunities to develop a culture of peer-supported learning.

"We are proud to work with these districts as they strive to shape the future of learning by implementing more personalized and tailored approaches," said NMEF President and CEO Nicholas C. Donohue. "Our hope is that these grants will help these communities reshape educational opportunities to graduate a higher number of students prepared for 21st century success."