The Idea

An inquiry and project-based approach leads to greater student engagement and investment in learning.

Studies show that PBL can help close the achievement gap. In PBL classrooms, students demonstrate:

+ Better attendance
+ Higher scores on standardized tests
+ Increased knowledge of 21st century skills

Yet, only 1% of schools use PBL.

The Challenge

Schools today struggle with making classroom learning relevant, and educators lack autonomy and professional development to make instruction student-centered.

This lack of engagement and relevance results in America’s debilitating opportunity gap. Race, ethnicity and economic status perpetuate lower educational and professional aspirations, as well as overall achievement, for too many students.

9%
of Students from low-income families will graduate college in 6 years
50%
is the teacher turnover rate in the first five years in urban high schools
74%
of American twelfth graders are below proficiency in mathematics

This indefensible disparity is especially evident in high growth, STEAM careers where the workforce is mostly male (75%) and overwhelmingly white and Asian (90%).

“Whether inside a big organization or working on their own, most young people will be managing projects after leaving school. We need to do a better job of preparing kids for a project-based world.”

—Tom Vander Ark, Getting Smart

Our Solution

Real-World, Whole-World

We want to move the needle and inspire schools to move towards an inquiry and project based model. Through professional development and student immersion programs, UrbanX demystifies project-based learning for educators, schools and districts.

  • Digital courses connect core academics with the real world. Each is standards aligned, and includes lesson plans, resources, assessment rubrics, teacher’s guide, and examples of mastery.
  • Thematic immersion programs engage students through experiences in their local community, meeting business leaders and gaining exposure to tangible career pathways.
  • Trainings are online, in-person, and hands-on, and move teachers from theory to practice in a safe and supportive environment.  Educators hone their ability to purposefully model the learning, and in turn, to adeptly guide students.

Partner with Us

Urban X would not exist without our partners.

Public and private sector partners, entrepreneurs, and experts increase the purpose and value of students’ education.

Get involved