South Bend, IN, February 03, 2025 — Looking for a high school near you that emphasizes innovation, leadership, and real-world learning? The Portage School of Leaders, part of the Career Academy Network of Public Schools (CANOPS), is recognized as one of the best high schools in South Bend, offering a forward-thinking approach to education. Located in South Bend, Indiana, this pioneering learning community blends academic excellence with hands-on experience, ensuring every student is prepared for success while fostering a strong sense of belonging.
A School Community Built on Connection and Innovation
The Portage School of Leaders stands out by offering students meaningful, connected learning experiences. In the school’s state-of-the-art Future Lab, students engage their hands, heads, and hearts to build, design, and solve problems that matter to them and to their community. Collaborations with esteemed partners such as NASA and the University of Notre Dame provide students with opportunities to tackle real-world challenges in areas like aerospace engineering, machining, and community development.
The Portage School also encourages students to pursue passion projects through initiatives like Genius Hour and studio classes, empowering them to align their interests and experiences with their academic learning.
High Expectations, High Support
The Portage School of Leaders integrates on a competency-based model that combines high expectations with robust support. Students master essential “durable skills” that prepare them for success in college, careers, and beyond. Through the school’s Portrait of a Leader, students demonstrate mastery across five domains: connection, reason, agency, inquiry, and communication.
Learning That Makes a Difference
At the Portage School, teachers and students design learning experiences that make a difference. From developing sustainability solutions in the “Green Herons” studio to crafting stage design and puppetry for South Bend Civic Theater productions, students engage in projects that connect academic studies to real-world outcomes. Genius Hour initiatives encourage creativity and curiosity, allowing students to explore their passions while solving meaningful problems.
Leadership in Action
Students at the Portage School are empowered to lead with confidence and empathy. Programs like the Freshmen Leadership Immersion blend academic study of theories and practice in leadership through arts and social sciences with hands-on activities such as equine care and archery in partnership with 5 Star’s Summit Leadership Training Facility. In this unique, immersive learning opportunity, students exercise responsibility, persistence, and patience. These key experiences equip students to lead not just in the future but also in the present.
A Relationship-Rich Community
Connection extends beyond academics at the Portage School. The school’s relationship-driven culture ensures every student feels seen, valued, and supported. Morning all-school gatherings, Wayfinding sessions, and one-on-one mentoring create an environment where students thrive. This foundation of strong relationships enables the school to provide the high expectations and support needed for students to succeed.
At the Portage School of Leaders, the head, hands, and heart come together to create a transformative high school experience. Interested families are invited to schedule a tour to discover how the Portage School is preparing South Bend’s next generation of leaders to make meaningful contributions today and tomorrow. Feel welcome to visit their website or call 574-931-8400.
Join them for an exciting Open House at The Portage School of Leaders on February 1 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. Register here: bit.lyTPS2125.
They welcome all students and families to explore their innovative approach to high school education and experience firsthand the dynamic learning environment that sets us apart. Discover their state-of-the-art Future Lab, designed to ignite creativity and career readiness, and tour the Teen Center at the Club, a space dedicated to student growth, leadership, and community.
Don’t miss this opportunity to meet their passionate educators, engage with current students, and learn how The Portage School of Leaders is shaping the future of education.