For some able and talented students, conventional high schools do not work. Shackleton Schools, a Boston-based educational organization founded in 1998 with its first school on a hilltop in Ashby (central Massachusetts), is a high-end solution, run by a world-class team of educators and administrators, for a very fortunate few (50, soon to be 100). It shows how a private individual assumed a public responsibility (the essence of philanthropy) and it works — Shackleton is developing young leaders. Perhaps it will inspire you. Luke O’Neill founded it in his late thirties. He has degrees in law and business, and philanthropic experience with a Boys and Girls Club and Outward Bound, as instructor and fundraiser. His idea is an “Expedition Curriculum." Particular academic and social issues are seen through six-week journeys into communities, businesses, cultures and wilderness areas – worldwide – reinforced by rigorous academics. When at school students have practical responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, upkeep, etc. Most of the students are from New England, with 85% on scholarships averaging $20,000 apiece. In the 2004-05 school year, 50% of its students are African-American or Latino-American. All graduates are attending strong colleges and do well there. Over 200 educators have visited the school, and already it has emulators.