Ages 16 to 21
Specialized re-engagement program
What is the Heights Open Doors Competency Pathway Program?
The Heights Open Doors program offers a personalized, flexible path to graduation for students who learn best outside of traditional classroom settings. It’s designed to support learners in mastering skills and knowledge at their own pace. Students are able to focus on their strengths and interests, get credit for real-world learning, build skills that matter for college, career, and life, and work in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Who is the program for?
Open Doors is for high school students ages 16-21 who are off-track to graduate, re-engaging in school, or seeking a more individualized learning experience.
What is competency-based learning?
Competency-based learning means students progress by showing they’ve mastered specific skills or content, not just by spending time in class. It’s focused on what you know and can do. Students work with teachers and mentors to set learning goals, complete real-world projects, and demonstrate their skills through teacher-designed portfolios or student-designed projects.
Which subjects or competencies are covered?
Students work toward meeting standard Washington State graduation requirements with a focus on: Critical Thinking, Collaborative Thinking, Creative Thinking, Analytical Thinking, Digital Thinking, Financial Thinking, Flexible Thinking, and Holistic Thinking. Students earn a recognized high school diploma upon completion.
What does a typical day or week look like in the program?
Students attend their assigned class each week. This class time is used for learning and demonstrating new skills, collaborating with other students, working with teachers, etc. Students are also highly encouraged to work at home.
How long does it take to complete the program?
Generally, students take about two years to complete all of the requirements. However, it depends on each student’s starting point and pace. Some students may graduate more quickly; others may need more time. The focus is on acquiring and demonstrating the skills needed after high school, not rushing through the content.
What do students need to do to stay enrolled in Open Doors?
The state requires that Open Doors students complete reading and math testing within the first 30 days of enrollment, attend for at least two hours each month, and show progress (complete a graduation requirement) every three months. Graduation requirements could include the following: Washington State History course, High School and Beyond Plan, a competency, or a class towards a grad pathway.
