HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Wayne County Schools are launching a brand-new approach to middle school education.
The district joined with Marshall University and the Empowerment Collaborative to establish the state’s first Empowerment Demonstration School. The partnership is aimed at preparing students for success in academics, careers, and life. The model was announced Tuesday after the Marshall University Board of Governors meeting.
The Empowerment School model completely revamps the entire school environment, according to Marshall officials. The model provides experiences for students in simulated workplaces, project-based learning opportunities, all while developing problem-solving and leadership skills.
Beginning with a sixth-grade launch, Wayne County Schools will also be joined by five Empowerment Schools in Fayette County for the inaugural year. Midland Trail High School, Valley PK-8 Middle School, Meadow Bridge Regional School, Oak Hill Middle School and Fayette PK-8 school are all getting on board, per Marshall’s release. Then, each year, the initiative will expand one grade level.
Marshall’s role is to provide research and innovation for the initiative. The university will serve as the initiative’s higher education partnership and guide the schools as they implement the model.
Empowerment Collaborative’s project director, Dr. Kathy D’Antoni, is also a Marshall University Board of Governors member.
“Education has reached a moment where preparing students for tomorrow requires us to rethink how they experience school today,” D’Antoni said. “This partnership brings together one of West Virginia’s leading universities, an innovative public school system and the Empowerment Collaborative to create a model that can influence education throughout our state and beyond.”
Wayne County Superintendent of Schools Todd Alexander said he’s excited for the future with this agreement.
“Preparing future ready students is at the heart of our work in Wayne County Schools,” Alexander said. “Through this partnership with Marshall University and the Empowerment Collaborative, we are creating authentic learning experiences that connect academics, leadership, and career exploration.”
“By aligning our Empowerment work with Marshall’s Six Pillars of Excellence,” Alexander continued, “we aim to create greater educational, economic and workforce opportunities for the students and families of Wayne County.”
The goal for the initiative is to expand far beyond one or two counties. Marshall officials said they want to establish a statewide network of Empowerment Schools to bring more chances for career exploration for West Virginia youth.
“This initiative reflects Marshall University’s longstanding commitment to serving the people of West Virginia through innovation, collaboration and educational excellence,” Marshall University President Brad Smith said. “By bringing together higher education, K-12 education and community partners, we are creating opportunities that will benefit students for generations.”