Nurturing in children a sense of self, a passion for learning, community, and childhood.
Walkabout for Teens
The Walkabout Program

The Walkabout Program, an integral part of the High Schoolers Attic experience, is designed to help teens develop a deeper sense of self as they enter young adulthood; to nurture their passion for learning; and to provide them with the support and freedom that are needed to develop more deeply as a self-directed learner, while encouraging them to reach beyond the immediate Attic community.

Walkabout students will have one-on-one time with an adviser, as well as group time with other Walkabout students and advisers.  Walkabout advisers will support students in exploring learning opportunities and interests beyond The Attic, and help them map a course of action that best meets their individual goals and needs as a learner and young-adult. 

Unlike traditional high school, The Attic high school program begins when the student is ready.  Readiness to begin Walkabout is therefore not based on age (although students to need to be at least 13), but on a student's own personal readiness.  If students decide not to do the Walkabout, they will have the same academic choices as the other teens, but will not be assigned a Walkabout adviser, or participate in Walkabout discussions and group activities (which will occur during periods with other class choices).

In order to participate in the Walkabout program, students must meet the following criteria:
  • be at least 13 years old by the start of the school year
  • be an active learner (i.e. self motivated, taking advantage of learning opportunities, and responsible for own work)
  • have the will and desire to develop a deeper sense of self as they enter young-adulthood; to nurture their own passion for learning; and to develop more deeply as a self-directed learner, reaching beyond the immediate Attic community
  • write a detailed essay describing why they think they're ready for the Walkabout, if they choose to do it.
  • have approval from parents and the Attic Director

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