The MKS Vanguard
Leaders in Learning. Demonstrating Excellence.
Welcome to The Vanguard!
Success is a journey, not a destination. The doing is often more important than the outcome. -Arthur Ashe
Cognitive Skills or Content Knowledge?
It is evident that not all learners work in a traditional classroom. The Vanguard's approach to individualized education will allow students to develop these cognitive skills through multiple project based learning activities in every subject. As students problem solve, research and present findings, cognitive skills are developed that will carry our students though life. Our students will learn to read critically, question information they see, problem solve and apply new learning to real life situations.
Through the mentor process, our students will receive essential support. In weekly 1:1 mentor sessions, students will gain life skills needed to become resilient, critical thinkers. Instructors will use the cognitive skills rubric to guide and give feedback on student progress. As we focus on the journey, and not just the destination, we welcome you to come along and we jump into the start of a great year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The MKS Vanguard?
Vanguard is a modern researched-based approach to learning. Curriculum is personalized, self-paced and self-directed. Learning in Vanguard is interdisciplinary and integrated, not segmented into unrelated subject matter classes. With a focus on how to learn and how to show and use learning in the real world, Vanguard classes prepare students to succeed in high school, college or trade school, and life after formal education.
How does grading work?
Because the Vanguard focuses heavily on how to learn and uses material over simple rote content knowledge, the grading scale is 80% cognitive skills and 20% content knowledge. This is different than the traditional content -based grading, and is one of the important features of Vanguard.
Will my student learn enough about the core subjects to succeed in High School?
Although the Vanguard grading scale is 80% cognitive skills and 20% content knowledge, MKS Vanguard scholars are taught 100% of the state content standards. Moreover, because the curriculum is personalized, scholars may move ahead to advanced skills as soon as they are ready.
Do we have to have a computer at home?
It is the commitment of MKS to support Vanguard students by issuing Chromebooks for school and home use. It is a privilege extended to Vanguard students.
About us
Email: heaton.charles@pusd.us
Website: http://mckinley.pusd.us/pages/McKinley_School
Location: 325 South Oak Knoll Avenue, Pasadena, CA, United States
Phone: (626) 396-5630
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mckinleyschool
Twitter: @McKinleyPUSD