Press Release October 26, 2009

Results Pave the Way for Dramatic Growth at Expeditionary Learning Schools
Numbers are Up Significantly in 2009-2010 School Year

New York, NY -- Expeditionary Learning Schools (ELS), a national school improvement organization, has added 19 schools this year. The ELS network now includes 165 schools in 29 states and the District of Columbia, reaching approximately 46,000 students and 4075 teachers. The increased national impact of ELS follows another year of strong test scores in ELS schools across the country. ELS provides intensive teacher training and school coaching to schools of all kinds - elementary, middle, and high schools; charter schools and district schools; urban, suburban, and rural schools; and schools with a broad range of student populations-that wish to improve student achievement and engage students deeply in their learning. Many districts see partnerships with ELS as vital to their district-wide improvement plans. Jean-Claude Brizard, Superintendent of the Rochester City School District in Rochester, NY, notes the importance of the district's expanding partnership with ELS:"Expeditionary Learning plays an integral part in our plan for expanding our portfolio of high-performing, high-demand schools. We're looking forward to offering an EL continuum from K-12 to meet the needs of our students and families." Tom Van Winkle, Chief Operating Officer at ELS, sees the growing organization as "one of the best-kept secrets in the education reform business". Reflecting on this year's growth, Van Winkle comments: "as educators discover that working with us not only results in high test scores but a more engaged and active student body, they are finding the means to partner with us." ELS school revenue is up 22 percent in the 2009-2010 school year. About Expeditionary Learning Schools Expeditionary Learning Schools is the largest school improvement organization of its kind. Located primarily in urban and rural areas where school improvement is most needed, ELS schools promote high academic achievement through real world projects and products within an active, engaging, and rigorous college preparatory curriculum.

Contact Libby Woodfin Communications Project Manager - Senior Staff Writer Expeditionary Learning Schools 413-253-7707 lwoodfin@elschools.org