The Christopher Program was founded in 1990 and has been recognized as one of Ohio’s Best Practices by Ohio’s Education Partnership. The program serves high school juniors and seniors from public schools across Franklin County. Implementing a project-based, integrated humanities curriculum, the Christopher Program challenges students to become analytic thinkers, effective communicators, successful collaborators, and responsible citizens. Students prepare for life in the global society by pursuing in-depth research projects, examining international connections in Central Ohio, engaging with the local arts community, and making major presentations in a variety of forums.
Philosophy
Christopher Program students learn skills that are necessary for success in today’s information-based world. The program operates on a set of guiding principles including:
- We focus on projects, first hand experience and papers rather than textbooks, lectures and tests.
- We are a relationship-based, small learning community focused on individual solutions rather than one-size-fits-all rules.
- We believe students learn best in a diverse setting so we promote effective collaboration between students across racial, religious and socio-economic backgrounds.
- We value learning for learning sake rather than to “get the grade”.
- We believe that students deserve to be treated like adults and are capable of being accountable for that responsibility.
- We believe learning is a way of life and therefore provide students a vast range of learning opportunities in class and beyond.
Eligibility
Christopher Program is designed for learners 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
The most successful candidates have a strong commitment to independent learning, are capable of assuming responsibility for self-direction, work well with others and have an interest in multicultural/global issues and/or the arts.
Curriculum
Christopher Program is designed as a two year experience for high school juniors and seniors, although seniors may enter the program for a one year experience. The curriculum is project-based, integrating English, social studies, art and cultural studies. Students receive one credit each for English and social studies and one-half credit each for cultural studies and art.
Assessment
The assessment of each student’s performance will be based on portfolios, presentations, and other products that demonstrate the student’s learning. Other criteria that will be incorporated into the assessment are how well the student uses and manages his/her time, how well the student works with others on group projects, and how the student demonstrates responsibility. Christopher Program staff assigns letter grades at the close of each district’s grading period and reports them to the appropriate school personnel.
Logistics
Students attend their district high school in the morning and the Christopher Program in the afternoon. The program operates daily from 12:45-2:50 p.m.
In the spirit of community involvement, Christopher Program classes are held at a “mobile campus” which includes Columbus Metropolitan Library, Ohio State University, First Congregational Church, Wexner Center for the Arts and the Columbus Museum of Art.
The student’s family is responsible for assuring that daily round trip transportation is provided for their student. While students are permitted to drive, we strongly encourage the “buddy system” when traveling.
Are you interested in the arts and world cultures?
Do you want to expand your knowledge and express your creativity?
Do you like to learn by being out in the world and getting involved?
Would you like to make new friends from high schools across Franklin county?
Are you mature enough to handle lots of trust and responsibility?
Do you crave a life-changing experience?
Are you looking to make your mark on the world?