Compass High School’s learning community is comprised of students who are unique learners and a staff that reflects diversity in teaching styles and methods. 

The culture at Compass High School prompts thoughtful interactions between students and teachers to initiate a learning dialog that encourages students to become active, self-directed, life-long learners.  Our alternative education system is based on building relationships and hands-on learning. We believe that learning can take place anywhere, not just in a formal classroom setting.

Credit is earned in many unconventional ways, including independent studies, travels, and internships. We emphasize an understanding of the process of learning and the personal, real-life application of knowledge. We strive to prepare students for lives as adults. Academic and intellectual development is balanced with building strong life and communication skills.

High School Student Curriculum

Our belief is that great learning can take place outside of a formal classroom setting. Credit can be earned in many unconventional ways such as independent study, travel, special projects, internships and passages. 

We pride ourselves on our innovative campus design. Our architecture allows us to redefine the idea of school by inspiring learning in unexpected places. These unique educational spaces allow for collaboration and out-of-the-box thinking. 

Our belief is that high school should prepare teenagers for their lives as adults. Understanding the process of learning and the personal application of acquired knowledge is forefront in our curriculum. 

We encourage teachers to design their own courses with this goal in mind. Therefore, our academic and intellectual development is complemented with the development of practical, personal, and social skills. 

High School Student Assessments

As an alternative choice to traditional high schools, we pride ourselves on offering individualized, self-paced programs that promote quality education and an opportunity for success for all students. 

We believe that a hands-on experience is more valuable then textbook content. Instead of assessing students’ ability with school-wide tests and quizzes, we encourage teachers to gauge their progress with practical demonstrations of their learning.  

Dual Enrollment

Many Compass High School students are eligible for dual enrollment through Pima Community College. The dual enrollment program allows students to earn college credits before graduation and helps them get ahead on a college degree of their choice. 

Dual enrollment students may attend one in-person course at a time at Pima Community College. Students in good academic standing are eligible to have the PCC dual enrollment tuition costs covered and required text books paid for by Compass High School. 

CHS students interested in the dual enrollment program should talk to their advisor. Staff will help eligible students complete the enrollment process for Pima Community College. Before classes begin, students will take assessments, enroll in classes with the help of a PCC counselor, and complete student orientation. Dual enrollment students follow Pima Community College’s schedule for registration and course enrollment. 

Passages

Students have the opportunity to work with their advisor to create a passage. Our passages are individually designed learning experiences that encourage students to pursue their passion for learning in the areas of career, adventure, practical skills, creativity, global awareness, logical inquiry or a personal challenge. 

A passage can be the beginning of a life exploration, the start of a career, or just a fun, unique experience. Eligible passages can fulfill required credits and can help students expedite their graduation.