How Excel Academy Brings Project-Based Learning in Chicago

Excel Academy Project-Based Learning Journey

This summer, three educators from across Excel Academy Roseland and Excel Academy South Shore, both part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Options Network (CPS Options Schools), traveled to Boston for Springpoint Schools’ PD: Transformative Learning Experience” (TLE) Unit Professional Development. The two-day program immersed teachers and principals from across the country in project-based learning, an instructional approach that empowers students to take ownership of their learning through real-world, inquiry-driven projects.

The opportunity, made possible through a CPS Options Schools pilot program, marked the first time Chicago’s Excel campuses joined Springpoint’s national initiative, and for Excel Academy educators, it served as both recognition of the innovative work already happening in classrooms and a chance to bring back new ideas that connect deeply with students’ lives.

Why Project-Based Learning Matters for CPS

In recent years, CPS has emphasized rigor walks, a framework that shifts classrooms from lecture-based instruction to student-driven learning. Teachers engage students in group work, peer questioning, and projects that push learning beyond surface-level comprehension.

“CPS has been clear about wanting more authentic rigor in classrooms,” said Principal Elizabeth Landig, who has been an administrator at Excel Academy Roseland since 2012. “But developing truly rigorous projects is a big lift for teachers. Springpoint provides well-designed, ready-to-use units that are engaging, relevant, and effective.”

Only a handful of Chicago Options Schools earned spots in the pilot, including Excel Academy.

“I feel proud we were chosen,” said Landig. “It shows that the progress we’ve made in our schools over the years is being recognized, and that our efforts to meet students’ needs are making an impact.”

Excel Academy Roseland – Students and the Law

At Roseland, lead English teacher William Sessler used the PD to build a unit he has long wanted to teach: “Students and the Law.”

Drawing on his interest in a law career, Sessler designed his project to help students study landmark Supreme Court cases and sharpen critical thinking skills by preparing and arguing their own legal positions.

Students will examine constitutional issues, particularly First Amendment cases, then take on roles as plaintiffs, defendants, or judges in a culminating moot court. They will also practice literacy skills by reading case briefs, summarizing arguments,s and presenting their findings.

“We want this to be both meaningful and motivating,” Sessler said. “Students will see how the legal system works, connect it to their own lives, and even consider career paths they may not have thought about before.”

Excel Academy leaders are working with Springpoint to connect students with Loyola University law students and local practicing attorneys who can mentor and serve as guest speakers.

Excel Academy South Shore – Photo Gentrification Project

At Excel Academy South Shore, Principal Camille N. Ivy-Williams selected the “Photo Gentrification” unit, which uses photography and storytelling to help students explore changes in their own communities. Initially drawn to the project for its arts and literature connections, Ivy-Williams soon saw its wider potential.

“I thought gentrification was only negative. But through the activities, I saw there are positive aspects, too like redevelopment and job opportunities. That shift in perspective was an eye-opener, and it’s exactly the kind of balanced, authentic learning experience our students deserve.”

Teacher and Principal Reflections on PD

Both Sessler and Ivy-Williams said the PD exceeded expectations.

“I actually got more out of the experience than I expected,” Sessler said. “The materials were well thought out, paced appropriately, and designed for students like ours. It was rigorous, but in a way that excites students.”

Ivy-Williams added, “Honestly, it was the best PD I’ve ever attended. We started at 7:30 in the morning, and I didn’t want to leave at 3:30 in the afternoon when it was over. It could have lasted a week.”

Both leaders also valued connecting with educators from urban districts nationwide, including New York, California, and Texas.

“It was powerful to realize schools across the country face the same challenges, like attendance, enrollment, and resources,” Ivy-Williams said. “Sharing strategies and supporting one another was energizing.”

Expanding Project-Based Learning Across Excel Academies

Roseland will launch “Students and the Law” in October. South Shore will roll out “Photo Gentrification” to their English and social science classes in the second quarter. Both principals plan to expand the work to more classes in the future and even swap units across campuses so students can experience both.

“Project-based learning asks a lot of teachers,” Landig said. “But the payoff is seeing students take ownership of their learning and connect it to their lives. That’s what makes this opportunity so exciting for Excel and for CPS.”