Personalized Learning, also known as EDGE, is a new learning program in Holy Family schools. It began last year for sixth graders and has now been introduced to fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh and ninth graders. There are 41 freshmen participating and currently 6 teachers instructing with more already trained and equipped to teach personalized learning classes.

“The beauty of personalized learning is that it doesn’t just give you the answer, it’s more about the process to get to and find the answer,” Principal Ron Meyers said.

The PLP (Personalized Learning Program) encourages students to work independently and allows teachers to customize instruction in order to meet their students’ individual needs and interests. The program prepares students for their futures, based on how they learn best. Students are motivated by the “famous” progress line, which moves throughout the year to show where the average student should be.

“I like how you can go at your own pace. I also like that if you don’t do well on something you can go back, revise it, and get feedback from your teacher,” said Cathryn Skahill, ‘22.

Through the PLP, students are given frequent feedback and one-on-one time with their assigned teacher, known as their mentor. Students meet with their mentor once a week to talk about anything from the past week, whether it be school work or personal life. To help students on a more personal level, PLP students have a different relationship with their mentor than a normal teacher.

“I really enjoy that you can talk to your mentor about things that are going on in your life and at school,” said Marco Morel, ‘22.

There are currently multiple grade levels in the Holy Family Catholic School system participating in the PLP, and if all goes according to plan, eventually it will be available to all grades.

“I think eventually it’s going to be the education system of Holy Family Catholic Schools,” said Principal Meyers, “and, beyond that, I believe it will become the education system in the state of Iowa, if not across the country.”