EL Education is a school reform model that emphasizes high achievement through active learning, character growth, and  teamwork. EL Education emphasizes five core practices and ten design principles that support teaching and learning in its  schools.

 Expeditions are comprised of two to three in-depth Case Studies on a particular topic. The exploration of the topic is navigated  by guiding questions that challenge the students to gain an understanding of the “big ideas.” Teachers integrate several subject  areas so that students see the connections in what they are learning. Students participate in fieldwork when they go out into the  community to research the topic, and community members are invited to speak with the students about what they are learning.  In addition, each expedition has a service element that supports the school or Decatur community.