OASIS just celebrated its winter commencement, honoring another handful of students who benefited from the chance to learn in an alternative way. In addition to applauding the kids, we also give praise to Orcas School and teacher Marta Branch for this incredible opportunity.

In May, CNN reported nearly 16 percent of all people in the U.S. between the ages of 16 and 24 had dropped out of high school in 2007. That is 6.2 million young people.

According to CNN, the Northeastern University study named the statistic “a persistent high school dropout crisis” and gave one solution: small, individualized programs for secondary education that bucked the trend.

The study asserted that the most successful programs for students had five elements. They were small. They offered after-school and summer choices. They were led by experienced staff. They focused on learning in the real world. Finally, they were well-supported by the district.

Orcas Island School District’s OASIS high school program fits that description five for five.

OASIS offers a chance for students to keep learning if they can’t find their niche in the regular curriculum. Some want a more challenging learning environment, where they can study topics of particular interest. Others desire a slower pace to finish their degrees. OASIS also helps with obtaining GEDs.

Branch is the heart of the high school program. When her students talk about their time with her, they are reverent and grateful. Branch – and the school district – recognize that we all learn in very different ways. Education, whether it’s traditional or non-traditional, is the foundation upon which the rest of our lives develop. We’re proud to be part of a community that celebrates all forms of learning.