NEXUS: a connection or series of connections linking two or more things; a connected group or series; the central and most important point or place.

In schools, why is learning separated into subjects? Why do we place a numerical value on learning? Why do we need credits to graduate? Can we spend more time beyond the limits of our campus? How do we go to great depth of learning in one area if we are responsible for a breadth of knowledge in all areas? In what skills do we really need to be powerful to succeed later in life? If my education is meant for me, can I design my journey around who I am?

The Nexus Path is a flexible learning environment designed for students who want to answer the above questions in new, personalized ways. Nexus is designed to connect people to people, school to community, interests to study, past to future, skill to content, and you to your educational journey. To be in Nexus is to take an active role in owning your learning.

Program Description:
Community Learning Experience: Central to the beliefs that guide the Nexus Path is the importance of the acquisition and application of learning in the world beyond school. With support, all students will organize and manage an extensive internship or apprenticeship in the community in the student’s area of interest. These projects require at least 10-15 hours a week and are the basis of relevant, rigorous learning.

Graduation: Traditional graduation requirements at CVU require students to attain 20 credits in distinct disciplines (i.e., four credits of English, three credits of Social Studies, three credits of math). Students in Nexus graduate based on a defense of the depth of proficiency in transferable skills (CVU’s Graduation Standards) and self-designed and state-mandated Humanities and STEM content areas.

Nexus Team: The Nexus Team is co-led by students, teachers, and a community coordinator. The team will become a small community built around honesty, support, and exploration. The team will set parameters for weekly seminars where students will focus on reflection, skill development, planning, and organizing.

STEM/Humanities Independent Studies: In addition to honing transferable skills across all learning experiences, students will be required to pursue content through self-designed learning experiences. These experiences may be classroom or community oriented. All learning experiences will be captured in the portfolio and exhibition cycle.

Exhibition/Portfolio: Each student will create a portfolio and conduct exhibitions to highlight meaningful learning, growth, strengths, and challenges in the context of CVU’s Graduation Standards. While each quarter will be marked by at least one community exhibition, ultimately the student will present the portfolio in a graduation defense. Application: To join the program, students will need to complete an application and interview process. Applications are due by May 20. Interviews will follow in early June. While there are not set entrance requirements, Nexus may not be a fit for students who are not ready to be as self-directed and active as Nexus Pathways require them to be.