James & Grace Lee Boggs School

Demographics

Percentage of students*

Why James & Grace Lee Boggs School was nominated

The James & Grace Lee Boggs School, located in Detroit, Michigan, is a vibrant public charter school dedicated to nurturing creative and critical thinkers who actively contribute to their communities. With a strong emphasis on place-based education, the school integrates local heritage, cultures, landscapes, and opportunities into its curriculum, fostering a deep sense of place and community engagement among students. The school’s core values include critical thought, creativity, excellence in teaching, equity within both human relationships and the natural world, and authentic, trusting relationships—all aimed at empowering both the community and the students. Boggs School's mission is to provide the tools for students to achieve ambitious goals, live meaningful lives, and develop a strong sense of stewardship for Detroit. By connecting students with themselves, each other, and the earth, the Boggs School aims to "grow souls" and foster a better future for all.

Student experience design

We are designed to nurture creative, critical thinkers who contribute to the well-being of their communities using a place-based model of learning. Student experience a chance to be active, engaged, and hands-on citizens who learn about and strengthen their community through their engagement in core content areas.

Core Practices

Core Practices	Length of Use
Place-based Learning	5+ years
Restorative Practices	5+ years
SEL Integration School-wide	5+ years

All Practices

AI For Teacher Productivity

Assessments For Social-emotional Skills

Community And Business Partnerships

Hiring For Equity And Inclusion Values

All Courses Designed For Inclusion

Mental Health Services

Multi-tiered System Of Support (MTSS) In Academics

Multiple Opportunities To Demonstrate Mastery

High Quality Instructional Materials

Social Justice Focus

Trauma-informed Practices

Tutoring

key reasons for innovating