Learning at RVNS

By carefully observing students while they play, River Valley teachers connect with students and learn about them as individuals. This observation informs teachers about the students’ interests and development and is used to create meaningful learning experiences that enrich their educational experience.

  • 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

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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