Program Description & Highlights
Program Description
The Academy for Global Studies (AGS) is a program within Austin High School, providing an internationally focused and academically challenging curriculum to a close-knit community of learners. Students undertake a course of study that highlights the interrelatedness and connections among world regions that combine to shape our increasingly global society. Students explore cultural traditions both on the world and local scales, while undertaking a rigorous course load of both pre-AP and AP courses. AGS is a member of the International Studies Schools Network, a national network of schools that share a common Graduate Profile.
The mission of AGS is to foster international understanding and diversity of thought while preparing students for a globally interconnected world.
The Academy for Global Studies (AGS) is a program within Austin High School, providing an internationally focused and academically challenging curriculum to a close-knit community of learners. Students undertake a course of study that highlights the interrelatedness and connections among world regions that combine to shape our increasingly global society. Students explore cultural traditions both on the world and local scales, while undertaking a rigorous course load of both pre-AP and AP courses. AGS is a member of the International Studies Schools Network, a national network of schools that share a common Graduate Profile.
The mission of AGS is to foster international understanding and diversity of thought while preparing students for a globally interconnected world.
Highlights
Project Based Learning
Project Based Learning
- Students primary form of assessment centers on independent and group projects tied to the 4 Pillars of Global Leadership: Investigate the World, Recognize Perspectives, Communicate Ideas and Take Action.
- Students present interactive portfolios of their work to outside professionals for authentic feedback.
- Students prepare and teach a lesson on a topic of international importance, to middle school students, thereby honing both problem solving and effective communication skills, as they advocate for global awareness.
- Students participate in curricular based travel, involving local, in-state, out of state and out of country trips. Students conduct independent research, experience authentic living conditions, interact with local people, and engage in service learning. Examples include, the Global Village simulation at Heifer Ranch in Arkansas, a visit to the indigenous Bri Bri people of Costa Rica, volunteering with Navajo students at To'hajiilee in New Mexico, and traveling internationally as a senior (we've traveled to Turkey, Spain, Ecuador, and China) to reflect on the rights and responsibilities of a global citizen.
