Customizing Innovative Practices at Pinnacles Prep

The journey of transformation in educational settings often remains invisible as it unfolds. Originating stories are typically revisited only years later, refined and polished, sometimes devoid of the rich, albeit chaotic, development moments. I am in constant search of surfacing the varied stages of implementation, and Pinnacles Prep is a valuable model for other institutions at the onset of their personalized learning journeys.

During my fall visit to Pinnacles Prep Charter School, a combined middle and high school, I was impressed by the school’s commitment to personalized learning. They are among many schools participating in the Washington State Mastery-Based Learning Collaborative. The school is characterized by an environment that prioritizes inclusivity. From the bilingual signage to the thoughtfully branded vision displayed throughout the renovated space—once a church but now a vibrant educational hub—it was evident that this institution embraces diversity. The interplay between the school’s historic stained glass windows and contemporary learning spaces creates a compelling backdrop for progressive educational practices.

One of the most striking features upon entering Pinnacles Prep is the sense of belonging. The school fosters a supportive environment where everyone is valued and respected, essential elements that enhance student engagement and academic success. 

Innovative Strategies

Pinnacles Prep actively explores various methods to personalize learning for its students. These approaches include project-based learning, badging learning outcomes, and student-led conferences. While the implementation is in its formative stages, the school’s dedication to addressing the unique needs of each learner is evident. Another noteworthy strategy implemented at Pinnacles Prep is starting to incorporate badge books—interactive tools that enable students to track their learning journey and celebrate their accomplishments. Some of us in the CBE world have called these binders or trackers, which were necessary before the advent of personalized learning platforms. A badge book can be a useful tool for building a foundational stage that can lead to thoughtful credentialing, while still being a compelling option in what can seem like an overly tech focused world. 

A dedicated educator, Haley Cummins,  has an innovative approach that keeps learners as the users at the center of her design. She created individualized cards corresponding to established performance indicators, where students collect “pie pieces” to demonstrate mastery of various skills and concepts, fostering a sense of ownership over their learning. These badge cards, stored in collectible sleeves reminiscent of sports memorabilia (or Pokemon collectors), serve as treasured artifacts for students—an engaging alternative to digital tracking methods.

Pinnacles Prep also supports student-led conferences that provide an intentional setting for students to present their work to parents and teachers. These conferences not only enhance their communication and presentation skills but, as teachers know, also encourage students to take the lead, offering valuable insights about their learning experiences while facilitating constructive feedback. This level of awareness and reflection builds the foundation for true agency.

Pinnacles Prep is steadfast in its mission to provide personalized learning for every student, irrespective of their background or learning style. Personalized learning is not merely a destination but an ongoing journey. As active architects and co-authors of their educational paths, students are dynamic participants in this process. Pinnacles Prep prioritizes learner agency and interests, moving away from traditional, adult-centric educational models. Although challenges inevitably arise, the school’s transparent culture supports growth and adaptation, reinforcing the belief in their collective success.

A Model for the Future

Mindful leadership is conducive to successfully implementing personalized learning, particularly in start-up schools. Principal Jill Fineis embodies a learning leader, that is to say, she is driven but reflective and agile when needed. She is a leader who, like her teachers, takes work home consistently and thinks deeply about the students and the staff and how to best support them. She would likely benefit from more balance, as would her staff, who are driven by their commitment to learners and their community. This creative and generative stage becomes the compelling origin story of a successful school. By cultivating a positive and encouraging atmosphere, she empowers educators to adopt innovative techniques that meet learners where they are. This thoughtful approach supports teachers and builds the momentum necessary to nurture an innovative school culture.

Pinnacles Prep Charter School lays a strong foundation for an impactful journey toward personalized education by fostering a culture of belonging and exercising robust and supportive leadership. Driven by a desire to cultivate future leaders, the school collaborates with families and the community to honor and celebrate the unique cultures and traditions of the Wenatchee Valley. Pinnacles Prep’s example is a powerful reminder of the potential for transformation in our schools. By embracing personalized learning and fostering a sense of belonging, we can cultivate equitable and engaging educational experiences for all students.