Teachers make use of the natural environment and community resources to create place-based, project-based learning opportunities that enhance critical thinking, creativity, problem solving, and healthy social and emotional development.
Literacy, mathematics, science, history, art, social studies, and Spanish are woven into and evolve from the interest of the children.
Assignments are individually tailored and one-one-one instruction is provided to help each child grow in a way that is right for them.
Teachers observe and collaborate with students to offer on-going project work and support for self-directed learning.
Projects are based on the individual interests, experiences, and skill levels of the children.
Children have time and space to play and create, both in our home-like schoolhouse environment and outside, with teachers supporting their learning and enriching their play.
Math
Ongoing projects based on interest in currency
Children play games in small groups to learn numeracy
Older children set up “restaurant” to sell food to younger children
Older children go shopping for books in town
Literacy
Reading materials chosen based on each child’s interest: Dragons
Children read/listen to and act out stories
Younger children learn letters with natural materials: Sticks
Older children read to younger children
Older children journal everyday
Projects
Mapping the classroom and the town!
Younger students practice measuring and comparing
Building an obstacle course!
Appreciating the seasons
Weaving! Art!
Noticing, contemplating, appreciating