Gibson Ek High School is open to any Issaquah School District student looking for a more independent, project-based approach to learning. Interested students may apply in eighth grade. Gibson Ek’s population of about 170 reflects a wide diversity of goals, from competitive college admission to entrepreneurship to careers in a trade or the arts. With no traditional classes or grades, Gibson Ek students learn through self-directed projects that reflect their interests, incorporating reading, writing, science, social studies and/or math along the way. Certificated teachers guide and assess students as they work independently. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, students are mentored by professionals or intern at regional businesses to explore career interests. Gibson Ek follows an innovative model established by Big Picture Learning, a Rhode Island-based organization that promotes student-directed, real-world learning. Gibson Ek is among more than 65 Big Picture schools nationwide, including — locally — choice schools in the Bellevue and Highline districts.