Mt. Spokane High School provides an outstanding environment for learning. The building is evidence of what happens when staff is involved in the design process. Our building was designed by teachers for students. In the center of the school is a grass courtyard highlighted by Harold Balazs’ inspiring sculptures, together entitled “Circle of Friends”. We are located in north Spokane, with beautiful views of wheat fields, Green Bluff, and Mt. Spokane.
In addition to being a wonderful physical structure, Mt. Spokane is proud of the learning opportunities we offer our 1470 students, with an average class size of 26 to 1. In order to address the needs and interest of all our students, we provide a wide range of curricular offerings. This curriculum is taught within a modified block schedule that provides flexibility for in-depth learning, staff collaboration, and student access to teachers. One indication of our students’ success, particularly in relation to state learning goals, is their performance on the High School Proficiency Exam (HSP), previously known as the WASL which measures the proficiency of students in high school and serves as the state’s exit exam. Students must pass this assessment or a state-approved alternative in reading and writing in order to be eligible to graduate. The dates for testing in spring 2010 are March 16-18 (reading is one day; writing is two) and April 13 (math) and April 15 (science). Our teachers have spent a significant amount of time defining learning targets in all subject areas across the 9-12 grade levels. We are committed to using data to drive our educational decisions and optimize learning opportunities for our students.
Our students have access to a wide variety of technology including rolling laptop labs, computers and LCD projectors in every classroom, and a state of the art Media Center. In addition, every room in our building has wireless internet access. Our staff continues to find ways to utilize technology as an effective tool for learning, including district-supported web resources such as EPSCO HOST, Proquest and SIRS Online.
Mt. Spokane also offers comprehensive extracurricular and co-curricular programs which involve close to 60% of our students. Our athletic teams continue to compete admirably in the Greater Spokane League. Athletic activities are augmented by strong drama, debate, DECA, leadership, vocal and instrumental music programs and a variety of clubs and activities sponsored by our Associated Student Body. Our ASB students play an active role in the vibrant life of our school and sponsor a successful two day on-campus event called Breaking Down the Walls for Mt. Spokane students. In addition to school related activities, Mt. Spokane students are involved in a number of community service projects that benefit a variety of groups and individuals in our area.
