Founding Principles
When we welcome a student into our school, they are going to be successful. They are going to learn about themselves, take responsibility, and gain the skills necessary for their future. Not all students will do this at the same pace, in the same way, or through the same activities, subjects, or interests. Ultimately, they will experience success.
- First, Do No Harm
Many school practices and experiences result in physical, psychological, or emotional harm to the child. This is simply unacceptable. Failure, shame, comparison, and unkindness have no place in an environment designed to encourage child development and well-being. We create physically and emotionally safe spaces and experiences for children to learn and grow.
- Start with the Child
Each child’s physical, emotional, social, and intellectual needs must be considered when making decisions about their school program. We choose all aspects of a child’s program (environment, content, teachers) with them in mind.
- Develop Their Strengths
Every child is unique, with different talents and strengths that must be considered in their education. When we acknowledge this, we create a strong foundation for learning. We identify each child’s strengths, learning style, and preferences to nurture their natural abilities and help them reach their potential.
- Encourage Their Interests
Student engagement is directly linked to interest in the material or topic at hand. We incorporate a student’s interests into their learning to create buy-in, increase participation, and empower them to learn more.
- Foster Independence
A significant feature of lifelong learning involves independence. We want children to enjoy learning and develop the skills they need to become independent, self-directed learners who no longer depend on a teacher.
- Create Connection
Student-teacher relationships form a foundation for learning. We get to know our students and their learning profile to create lessons and experiences that are meaningful to their development. Students have a voice in this process and work alongside their teachers in trusting learning partnerships.
- Ensure Their Success
Sustained success develops student confidence. We create conditions where all students can experience school success in their own meaningful way. We evaluate what prevents a student from experiencing success in school, determine which skills they need, and work to develop them.