Highlander Charter School
I analyzed the “Student and Parent Handbook” page on HighlanderCharter.org, specifically the “School Profile / School History & Philosophy / Mission, Vision & Values” sections.
Would it benefit from additional text?
Yes, it can be more concise, with clearer headings, bullet points, and shorter paragraphs. Where appropriate, additional explanatory text or contextual examples can help (for example, showing how “values” translate into daily school life).
Who was it written for?
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Parents/guardians of Highlander students, so they can understand policies, rules, expectations, and how to engage
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Students themselves (especially older ones) to know their rights, responsibilities, and how the school functions
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Teachers, administrators, and staff as a reference
Who should it have been written for?
I would argue it should be written equally for:
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Prospective families (parents/students considering Highlander)
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Current families and students
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Staff and new hires
Is the amount of text appropriate?
The handbook is very long and dense (many pages), especially for general visitors or prospective families. For a handbook, that much detail is expected; but for a public website page, it’s overwhelming.
For the overview sections (history, mission, philosophy), the amount of text could be trimmed and distilled. Some parts are repetitive or overly formal.
I would rewrite the “Mission, Vision, Values, and History” section to make it clearer and easier to read online. The mission would focus on using innovative education to inspire social change and help every child reach their potential. The vision would highlight providing high-quality, accessible learning for all students and families. The values—education, accessibility, empowerment, and excellence—would show the school’s commitment to opportunity and growth. I’d briefly note that Highlander began in 2000 and continues to promote social justice through community-based learning, where students progress by mastery, explore their passions, and learn through collaboration and resilience.
