Talent Development High School Model
About the Intervention
Talent Development High School Model is a comprehensive school reform initiative targeting low-performing urban high schools. The model focuses intensively on ninth grade through the Ninth Grade Success Academy, which reorganizes ninth-graders into small learning communities of 100-125 students taught by dedicated teacher teams. Students receive double doses of English and math using extended 90-minute block scheduling, with specialized catch-up courses (Transition to Advanced Mathematics and Strategic Reading) in the first semester preparing them for required courses in the second semester. The model includes a Freshman Seminar for study skills and social adjustment. For grades 10-12, students are organized into Career Academies (small learning communities of 250-350 students around career themes) that provide college-preparatory curriculum and work-based learning. Implementation requires professional development for teachers, curriculum coaches, and an organizational facilitator at each school. The model also includes a Twilight Academy for students with attendance or discipline problems.
Statistical Findings
Positive effect on attendance rates
Positive effect on total credits earned
Positive effect on earning basic academic curriculum
Positive effect on earning English credits
Positive effect on earning math credits
Positive effect on earning algebra credits
Positive effect on promotion to tenth grade
Positive effect on promotion to eleventh grade
Positive effect on total credits earned over two years
Positive effect on earning two English and two math credits
Positive effect on total credits earned over three years
Positive effect on earning three English and three math credits
Positive effect on math test scores (below-basic level reduction)
Positive effect on graduation rates (earliest-implementing schools)
More Intervention Details
Focus Areas
Social-Emotional Learning, Drop-Outs, Attendance, Economically Disadvantaged, Disciplinary InfractionsPrograms & Services
General Education, Career and Technical EducationDelivery Methods
Face-to-FaceDisability Support
N/ATarget Groups
Student(s), Teachers/Instructional TeamsSource
Corinne M., H., James J., K. & Thomas J., S. (2005). Making Progress Toward Graduation: Evidence from the Talent Development High School Model (ED485348). ERIC. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED485348.pdf.
Study Demographics
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Other Participant Characteristics
Geographical Setting
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