Competency-based education (CBE) is a robust, learner-centered approach to designing a program of study for our students that extend beyond traditional seat time in a classroom.  ICON’s goal is to become a recognized CBE school, with carefully designed project-based coursework that meets Iowa Core Standards and fulfills graduation requirements through non-traditional learning pathways.  At ICON, each student has a unique path that is guided by expert teachers and artists.   

“Competency-based education results in deeper learning outcomes for students as they engage in application, analysis, and evaluation of academic content to prepare for post-secondary success.  Students reach proficiency of academic content while learning how to think critically and creatively, collaborate and communicate effectively, adapt to challenges and complex problems, and be accountable for quality results.  A CBE system validates learning and proficiency of standards and competencies that occur both in and outside the traditional school structure and that go beyond the constraints of seat time and siloed content areas.  CBE enables districts and schools to provide student-centered, personalized learning systems through which students of all ages develop ownership of their learning and connect content to their interests and goals.”

– Iowa Department of Education Guidelines for PK-12 Competency-Based Education, p. 1