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History

OUR "WHY"

The MECHS family upholds a culture of high expectations, ownership, collaboration, and academic rigor.  We facilitate authentic, quality learning experiences that advance students’ post-secondary pathways and develop real-world interpersonal expertise.

 

WHO WE ARE

MECHS is an Early College High School (ECHS) and a New Technology High School (NTN); we’re one of only two high schools in the nation with both designations. This means our students learn through project-based learning and will graduate with both a distinguished high school diploma with advanced performance acknowledgements and an Associate’s degree from St. Philip’s College. In addition, we have a STEAM - Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math - focus. Our project-based experiences allow students to grow and apply their content knowledge and 21st century skills, develop their socio-emotional abilities, and focus on college and career readiness.

 

OUR HISTORY

We opened in August of 2009 as an Early College High School. We graduated our first class in 2013, with 36 students earning both their high school diploma and their Associate’s degree. In 2014 we decided to enrich the learning experience for our students by joining the New Tech Network, which meant we became a project-based learning campus. In 2018, we were proud to have 51 college graduates walk the stage.

 

ACADEMIC PROGRAM:

  • Honors-level program of study for all to prepare for college-level coursework
  • Standards-based curriculum that holds all students to high expectations
  • Engaging instruction that emphasizes learning through inquiry
  • Projects with real-world connections
  • Emphasis on creative and critical thinking
  • Differentiated instruction that meets the learning needs of each student
  • Interdisciplinary approach
  • Scaffold exposure to college-level instruction and college courses
  • Daily schedule and yearly calendar structured to extend learning

 

SCHOOL CULTURE:

  • Collaborative environment that embraces diversity
  • Foundation of respect for self and others
  • Staff commitment to motivate and inspire students
  • Mentoring of students
  • Advisory that supports academics and culture
  • Construction of peer culture that supports each other’s success
  • Family involvement that supports student success
  • College partnership that reinforces college-going culture
  • Clear student behavioral norms

 

ORGANIZATIONAL PRACTICES:

  • Multiple modes of academic support
  • Data-driven approach to curriculum, instruction, and school design
  • Shared leadership and collective decision-making
  • Student voice and role in shaping school direction
  • Use of common tools to ensure consistent academic expectations
  • Multi-faceted staff development that continuously improves teaching quality
  • Leader who serves as “keeper of the flame,” reinforcing mission and culture
  • Hiring and development of staff with skills and values to fulfill school mission

 

Memorial Early College High School Eagles - Soaring to new heights of excellence!