Orbis is a work-based learning program where students engage in real-world projects in partnership with the workforce.  High school students enrolled in this elective course strengthen skills in leadership, problem-solving, and communication while focusing on project management (SCRUM), design thinking, project-based learning, and Advanced Insight Profiles.  Orbis has been the recipient of the Governor’s STEM Best Award, Prairie Meadows Community Betterment Grant, and most recently, the Public-Private Partnership Award by the Ankeny Economic Development Corporation.

This fall semester launched the fourth year of Orbis, and students enrolled from four high schools to learn and perform together as project teams:  Ankeny High School, Ankeny Centennial High School, North Polk High School, and Saydel High School. 

Orbis offers these students the opportunity to authentically apply the foundational academic skills they’ve learned in the traditional classroom setting; as Orbis offers real world experience, making our students more marketable and prepared for success in their careers…. The final destination of student work is not a teacher’s desk. Rather, the work is reaching someone outside of the school setting and positively impacts the community.