Our school infuses first-rate instruction with community and family engagement. Reading, Writing and Math Workshops
Students learn language arts and math skills through a workshop model in which teachers present strategies to the whole class but then meet several times a week with each child to ensure that his/her individual needs are met. Workshops encourage children to see themselves as writers
, mathematicians, and scholars. They write a series of published writing pieces each year, read and discuss books of their choosing across many genres, and learn mathematical strategies that allow children to understand the underlying concepts, not just memorize a formula. Our math instruction takes a 3-pronged approach with direct instruction, review and fluency practice, and application through projects, especially projects with a social justice focus. Sustainability-Centered Projects
Students learn important social studies and science ideas through hands-on, student-guided projects that allow the concept that they are studying to come alive. Our curriculum is grounded in the social and environmental issues that affect our students, their families, and our community. Passions
Twice a week, students from kindergarten through 8th grade have classes like Debate, Exploring our World, Chess, Meditation and Yoga, Strategic Games, Wacky Science Experiments, and more. Teachers and community volunteers offer courses that they are passionate about, and students get to choose their classes. Passions classes allow children to engage in high-interest topics that enhance their academic and social growth
Responsive Classroom
We believe that a school’s social curriculum is just as important as its academic curriculum. We use a model that very deliberately builds community in the classroom. Students learn how to work together across difference, and to understand each other's strengths.
