Student Life
Academics at Crosstown
We believe learning happens all the time, everywhere.
At Crosstown High, learning is purposeful, personal, and grounded in the real world. Through project-based and competency-based learning, students tackle authentic challenges, collaborate with community partners, and develop the skills and mindsets they need for life beyond high school. Our students don’t just learn about the world—they engage with it, shaping their own path as thinkers, creators, and leaders.
What is Project-Based Learning?
Learning happens through projects that matter. Students build skills and gain knowledge by solving real-world problems.
In every project, students:
Tackle authentic issues that require critical thinking
Apply what they’re learning across subjects
Make choices and shape their path through the learning journey
Engage with experts, audiences, or mentors from the Memphis community
Go through multiple rounds of feedback and revision
Learn to communicate their ideas clearly and with purpose
Every project is a chance for students to deepen their understanding, grow the competencies that matter most, and see how learning connects to the world around them.
One Place for All Student & Parent NeedsThis is your go-to hub for all things Crosstown. From calendars and forms to policies and communication tools, it’s all here—organized and easy to access.
Experiential Learning
We believe meaningful learning happens both inside and outside the classroom. That’s why we provide hands-on experiences, like field trips and community-based learning, that connect students to the world around them. Our goal is for every student to participate in at least one experiential learning opportunity each school year.
What else makes us unique?
At Crosstown High, students do more than earn grades—they grow as thinkers, creators, and leaders.
Here’s how we make that happen:
Work-Based Learning
Students don’t just learn about the world—they work in it. Juniors and seniors have the opportunity to earn credit through internships, apprenticeships, and paid work experiences that build real-world skills and connect classroom learning to future careers.
APEX
Every student takes an APEX class, where they explore real interests beyond traditional academics. These hands-on, project-based courses are designed by students, teachers, and sometimes community members. APEX often extends beyond the classroom, with multiple off-campus trips that connect students to the Memphis community. Each course is graded, personalized, and offered every semester, giving students authentic opportunities to learn, create, and grow. Popular APEXes include: The Great Outdoors, Guardian of Deep (Marine Biology), Women’s Wellness, and American Sign Language (ASL).
College & Career Counseling
Beginning junior year, students work one-on-one with our college and career counselor to plan their path after graduation—college, trades, apprenticeships, military, or gap years. They connect with professionals, visit campuses, and attend regular virtual and in-person sessions that help them explore options and feel ready for whatever’s next.
Student Work in Action
See a few recent projects that showcase the depth and creativity of our students’ academic journeys.
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Wearable Art Fashion Show
Students created original wearable art pieces that blended fashion and storytelling from concept sketches to final runway looks.
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Plant Power Greenhouse
Lucy Burgess & Anthony Clark aimed to address Memphis food deserts by creating access to fresh food.
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Harlem Renaissance Zine
Lucy Gibson created a zine exploring Langston Hughes’ Slave on the Block through the lens of the Harlem Renaissance.
Ready to learn differently?
Whether you're a prospective student, a curious family, or an educator looking for a better way, we invite you to experience Crosstown High for yourself.