Christopher Program
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Christopher Program or "CP" is an alternative education program in Columbus, Ohio. Sponsored by the Franklin County Educational Council, the program has served high school juniors and seniors from Franklin County since 1991. The program is designed to meet the unique needs of student who are:
- independent, original thinkers
- intellectually curious, creative, or unique
- motivated by “real life” learning experiences
- interested in the arts and creative expression
- committed to having a voice and making a difference
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[edit] Philosophy
The philosophy behind CP is that every student is in charge of their own education and that teachers should have a different role that involves guidance and support rather than coddling. CP places an importance on global issues and perspective consciousness, so that students may gain a greater understanding of how they affect the world.
[edit] Facilitators
In Christopher Program the teacher's role is redefined; as such they are retitled. The "Teachers" from a public high school, here would be referred to as facilitators as their role is that of guide and mentor. They facilitate the students' learning process. Some current and past facilitators include:
- Steve Shapiro - Current.
- Kim Leddy- Current
- Shelley Charity - Past.
- Deke Kidwell - Past
- Todd Stanley - Past.
- Anne Stidham- Past
- Abby Kerr - Past.
- Andrea McAllister - Past, now teaches at The Metro School
- Rick Houchen- Founder
- Judy Hummel- Founder
[edit] Projects
The curriculum is based around projects designed to give the students a wide array of experiences and personal choices. Some past projects include:
- Identity project.
- Meaning of Life project.
- Creative Writing project.
- Impressionist Art project.
- Autobiography project.
- Debating Global Issues project.
Christopher Program has also in the past been involved in the Model United Nations as well as the Model United Arab Leagues. Projects outside the "norm" are encouraged and frequent. Christopher Program is also continually developing relationships with service organizations in the Central Ohio area, and the students often find themselves working with groups in the community as a part of their school work.
[edit] Community
Community is a value stressed at Christopher Program. The intention is to create long lasting, meaningful relations with fellow students as well as the facilitators. This defies the norms established by the public schooling system which encourage impersonal relations among students and teachers.
