The Challenge
Ensuring Students Could Achieve Their Diplomas

After years of declining enrollment and concerns over curriculum alignment, the district discontinued German at Chandler High. The decision left three Diploma students without access to the subject they needed to complete their IB.

The school faced a dilemma: they couldn’t justify hiring a full-time teacher for such a small class, yet they couldn’t let students’ diplomas be derailed.

“Otherwise, we would have had four students not getting their IB diplomas after all the work they did last year.”

Initial Concern
Uncertainty Around Online Learning

Parents and students were initially skeptical. Could an online class really provide the depth and rigor needed for IB success?

“They have said that they’ve learned more in these past couple months of working with [Mr. R] than what they did in the past several years.”
Confidence quickly grew as students began to see the quality and engagement of Lanterna’s teaching firsthand.

Lanterna’s Solution
A Flexible, Personalised Approach

“We joke that this is the most IB situation ever. This is a Pakistani man living in Malaysia working for a Swedish company teaching German to these American kids—it really embodies everything about what IB stands for.”

To meet the school district's privacy and tech requirements, classes ran through Google Meet, with materials and recordings shared on Google Classroom. Patricia coordinated with the Lanterna teacher daily, managing assignments and student submissions to ensure a smooth learning experience.

“He has been fantastic trying to catch these students up. He’s been so patient and supportive with the students and provides the daily material that they need.”

As an educator experienced in online delivery, the teacher structured lessons to keep students speaking, listening, and responding throughout.

“There’s a lot of participation from the student side, which helps to keep them engaged.”

The Outcome
Diplomas Saved, Confidence Restored

The collaboration proved a success. Students regained their motivation, parents regained confidence, and Chandler High's IB Programme maintained its integrity.

“This has been a true lifesaver for our kids.”

With one additional student transferring into the school specifically to join the Lanterna class, the partnership not only saved diplomas but expanded access to the IB for more learners.

“To save four students this year getting their diploma – those numbers matter.”

“I absolutely think that this is one of the most creative solutions I’ve seen to staffing issues at schools.”