The Power of CHOICE Academies

Motivating Middle School Students

In schools and classrooms across the country, there is a powerful argument to provide more student self-selection across every grade level: reducing one-way learning, increasing problem-solving and placing more responsibility firmly in the hands of students. *

Grace Place believes in the importance of choice to engage and empower our students. This is especially important for our middle school students, grades 6-8. For many of these students, they have reached an age to decide for themselves what they want to do after school and choose whether they want to continue with the Grace Place after-school program.

This is where the powerful impact of the Grace Place Choice Academies comes into play. Every seven weeks, students choose one of six academy-focused areas that they want to join and work with industry professionals in project-based experiences that culminate in a final showcase. Incorporating these choice-based, career learning opportunities provides middle schoolers with the extra motivation they need to continue their learning outside of the regular school day.

This past year, Grace Place partnered with The United Arts Council, Naples United Football Club, The First Tee of Collier, SWFL Blazers, and FGCU Water School. Given some students are more interested in the arts and athletics, the Choice Academy also includes chess, culinary arts, basketball, painting, leadership, water ecology, and soccer.

*Motivation and Engagement in Student Assignments:
The Role of Choice and Relevancy. Equity in Motion.

Have an idea for a Choice Academy?
Want to be a volunteer to teach or judge an Academy? Contact Josh.Edel@graceplacenaples.org.