Independent high school offers a different path

It is Whitefish High School's goal to have all students graduate with functional academic skills, social and emotional maturity, and positive self-views.

But Whitefish High is not the only program that strives for such graduates. Whitefish Independent High School (WIHS), a program of Whitefish High, also shares the same goals.

Located just a block away from Whitefish High, WIHS is an alternative high school program that has been in place since December 1999. Certain students who find it difficult to be successful in a typical high school setting may opt into this independent-learning-based program.

"We have a population of kids for whom a traditional seven-day high school program does not work," guidance counselor Tina Corwin said. "Each independent high school student has his or her own story, be it academic, family-related or social, that makes it difficult for the student to fit into the traditional high school structure."

WIHS provides a solution for this in the form of "quality, meaningful and incremental educational experiences." Students operate on an independent schedule that follows the guidelines of a student plan set up in conference between the student and a counselor.

Students at WIHS hold schedules based on hours and are required to "clock in and out" throughout the week to achieve a minimum of 20 hours of study time per week. There are no absences or tardies at WIHS; this life skill of time management is an important factor in an independent high school education.

"The idea of self-motivation is key at WIHS," Corwin said. "There are no bells that ring for the beginning or end of classes. The students' focus and self-regulation determines the rate of learning."

Typically 25 students attend WIHS, excluding freshmen. The school offers a wide variety of classes, and students opt into taking either online courses or classes in a traditional setting. Most students take either three or four classes at a time, and some who might be credit-deficient choose to take industrial technology or fine arts classes at Whitefish High School.

"I'm taking history, English, and current events at WIHS," senior Aaron Schibig said. "I'm also taking computer applications at the high school. I like that I can work at my own pace and don't have to worry about making it at semester."

The typical WIHS school year is divided into eight "blocks," with credits assigned at the end of each block. Students receive report cards every four weeks and can earn a maximum of eight credits a year per class. All WIHS graduates receive the same diploma a WHS graduate receives.

Education at WIHS is also very career-oriented. Students learn about job interviews and resumes, and the economic market. Students also perform community service throughout the week and are encouraged to keep the school building tidy throughout the year. Students are often seen shoveling the parking lot and neighbors' driveways.

"It's a lot of fun," WIHS student Brandi Mitchell said. "There's a lot less drama at WIHS, and I get along with pretty much everyone there. I've learned that I can do anything I put my mind to and succeed at it."

Overall, WIHS provides a safe space for students to form relationships and self-confidence.

"Kids at WIHS feel accepted," Corwin said. "We try to encourage positive feelings there and the idea of team building. It's amazing to watch some kids come out of their shells at WIHS and enjoy their learning."

"There's more to people than others think," Schibig agreed. "At WIHS, I have the chance to see that in others."