Challenge

To increase retention and completion outcomes and graduation rates, Odyssey and Edmentum have partnered to develop an intentionally designed virtual learning model that is supported with courses and instructional services and tailored to each student’s unique needs. The school’s mission is to provide a high-quality education for a wide variety of students for whom traditional schooling options are insufficient. Virtual instruction, personalized courses, and competency- based learning design are offerings that Odyssey’s students may not otherwise have access to.

Solution

To better serve these students, OOL’s new schoolwide data intervention system is designed to strategically direct support services. In addition, leadership has invested in a Student Engagement Department, with skilled specialists who include Edmentum’s success coaches, who deliver tailored coaching and mentorship. The changes have been effective at building deeper relationships among OOL’s learners and the school’s network of educators, from school leaders and administrators to student engagement specialists, guidance counselors and teachers.

Result

OOL’s strategic school-improvement is underway, but the early results have been promising. Drop-out rates have decreased by 27 percentage points, while graduation rates have more than doubled. “What we’re doing is working,” said Owings. “And when you see our students walk across the stage, after all that they have been through, to complete this chapter of their learning journey, those moments speak for themselves.”