Why are mixed-ability classes rather than tracked classes offered at HTHI?
Whether or not to track students, or “ability group”, has been a hot topic in education for many years. Proponents of tracked classes are often afraid that high achieving students will be held back if they are forced to attend class with students that have experienced less success academically. Numerous studies have now shown that student achievement increases significantly for students in mixed-ability classrooms that have had moderate to low success in the past, and not only does not harm, but benefits students that come in with stronger academic skills. We believe that all students can succeed and it is our responsibility to provide them with equal opportunity to excel. Students at HTHI work in groups and collaborate on projects, but are also held accountable for individual learning and meeting personal academic goals. Giving students from various academic, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds the opportunity to work together also helps students develop stronger interpersonal skills
