Conservatory Lab Charter School

Demographics

Percentage of students*

Why Conservatory Lab Charter School was nominated

At the core of Conservatory Lab's pioneering curriculum is the hybrid of two proven and exemplary programs: El Sistema and Expeditionary Learning. Both programs emphasize the experience of breaking through barriers in the pursuit of excellence and creating a culture and habit of perseverance. Conservatory Lab provides a unique learning experience that includes daily music instruction, based on the El Sistema approach, for all students PreK-8. Our youngest scholars participate in daily vocal and rhythmic instruction before moving to a stringed instrument in grade one. In fourth grade, some students transition to woodwinds, brass or percussion instruments. As an EL Education (formerly Expeditionary Learning) school, all students participate in 1-2 expeditions each year. These interdisciplinary units typically lasting 8-12 weeks are grounded in social studies or science content, while building literacy skills and integrating the arts. Students participate in research and field work, collaborate with experts in the field, engage with service learning opportunities, and develop an authentic product, modeled after artifacts from the real world. Taken together, these two programs motivate and nurture Conservatory Lab's students to become dedicated scholars, compassionate leaders, and skilled musicians.

Student experience design

Conservatory Lab Charter School creates a unique learning experience for students where they engage in music every day, transitioning to instrumental music in grade one, as well as using the EL Education model to engage students in project based learning linked to local social justice issues. Students learn to become leaders of their own learning by reflecting on their learning, sharing areas of growth and challenge during student led conferences.

Core Practices

Core Practices	Length of Use
Student Advisories	5+ years
All Courses Designed For Inclusion	5+ years
Multi-tiered System Of Support (MTSS) In Academics	1-2 years
SEL Curriculum	5+ years

All Practices

Assessments For Agency And Self-directed Learning

Assessments For Social-emotional Skills

Culturally Responsive Practices

Grading Policies Focus On Mastery

Interdisciplinary

Multiple Opportunities To Demonstrate Mastery

Project-based Learning

Performance Based Assessment

Reallocation Of Resources For Those Most In Need

Student-led Conferences

Student-led Goal Setting

Universal Design For Learning

key reasons for innovating

Artifacts

SGP DATA