A new charter school is set to launch in Oklahoma, offering a fresh alternative for students who face challenges in traditional classrooms.
Thrivepoint Charter School will focus on helping underperforming students improve their academic success. According to Brian Shellem, chairman of the Oklahoma Charter School Board, the school is designed to support those who need extra help.
“The advantage of Thrivepoint is that they target the underachieving kids,” Shellem said. “They are trying to help the kids who are struggling academically.”
Clark Jolley, chairman of the school’s board, said Thrivepoint will take a different approach to education. Each student will be paired with a teaching assistant who acts like a mentor, helping them stay on track and reach their goals.
“Bringing in student success coaching builds a long-term relationship between the student and the school,” Jolley explained. “It helps them stay focused and find solutions when problems come up.”
Jolley said many students do not do well in a traditional classroom setting. He believes that different teaching methods can help these students succeed.
“When I saw that we had the chance to do something new for alternative and non-traditional students, I couldn’t say no,” he said.
Thrivepoint is expected to enroll hundreds of students when it opens next year. Jolley believes the new school will give parents more choices in how they educate their children.
“This gives families more options,” he said. “We believe parents know what is best for their children.”
The school’s next steps include recruiting students and hiring qualified teachers. Jolley also said they will host community events to spread the word about Thrivepoint.
