1. The Island School Curriculum: A New Story An interpretation of the recommendations made by the academic review team Justin Symington, Dean of Academics

2. The Story Animal Humans need stories. Our worldviews, for instance, are simply stories that inform our interpretation of the past, direct our actions in the present, and guide our steps into the future.

3. The Island School’s Story The Island School, especially, depends on its stories to inspire the community and to create a sense of purpose in the learning that takes place during the semester.

4. Stories of Creation And we have some great stories. Our creation, for one, is a powerful story of commitment to a vision, which has now expanded well beyond its original limits.

5. Stories of Alumni Also, we have amazing stories of alumni following the passions The Island School helped to nurture.

6. The Academic Story THE CAPE ELEUTHERA ISLAND SCHOOL VISION: To be a community that fosters the development of responsible, caring global citizens by restoring a sense of wonder and respect for biotic and cultural complexity. One of the greatest benefits of the academic review was the preparation process. It forced us to focus on the core values encapsulated in the vision statement. Leadership Community Responsibility

7. The Academic Review The most valuable feedback we received from the academic review team was a reminder of what is special about our program—authentic scientific research, cultural immersion opportunities, and student leadership development.

8. The Academic Review The feedback also set the table for us to evaluate how well specific courses and programs support those three core learning opportunities and to effect the changes that will make The Island School a model for other semester abroad programs.

9. Focus Areas Four key areas for consideration:  Rework the curriculum so that all courses and programs support one or more of the three signature learning areas.  Create more time in the schedule for students to complete coursework and to reflect on their learning.  Expand in-house professional development opportunities.  Actively recruit faculty, staff, and students of color. Based on their observations of our program, the review team suggested that we consider making significant changes to four key areas. The next slide provides a visualization, albeit simplified, of their curricular recommendations.

10. Mind: Scientific Research Body: Physical Fitness & Outdoor Education Spirit: Culture & Personal Transformation Celestial Navigation Environ-mental Art Tropical Ecology Morning Exercise Kayak Expeditions SCUBA Seminar Research Projects Caribbean Literature Bahamian Culture Homestay Program Community Outreach Legacy Projects Down Island Trips Health & Wellness Leadership Community Responsibility

11. Next Steps Proposed Timeline for Implementation:  Jan/Feb 2008 – Leadership Team Retreat at Lawrenceville to create framework for changes  June 2008 – Curriculum redesign session at Lawrenceville  Fall 2008 – Phase I of changes  Spring 2009 – Phase II of changes  Fall 2009 – Final changes and evaluation of new framework It is time to revisit our vision and rework the entire program to ensure that our students are receiving the quality of experience that our potential allows.