Our spring teams have become more competitive; the teamwork throughout the school day and during games is beautiful to see, and the leadership from our 8th graders has been phenomenal.
Spring Sports Recap from Jerad
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At its heart, a progressive school seeks to involve all members of the community in learning. Students are given a strong voice and stake in the learning process, from deciding how to show their understanding of a given topic, to helping shape the units of study themselves. Teachers are guides and partners in the learning process and listen deeply and carefully to the students. Learning is active and experiential and often integrates various subject matter as students work towards greater understanding. Students learn beyond our four walls, utilizing both the natural environments afforded on our own campuses, as well as all the DC metro area has to offer. They go beyond this learning and take action, both through community service and social justice projects, to make positive change.
Progressive education values the heart along with the mind and because of this, time and space are given for social and emotional learning. Strong and respectful relationships among children and between teachers and students are built through regular community meetings, problem solving sessions, and shared learning experiences. Students learn to navigate relationships with peers, identify and manage their own emotions, and advocate for their needs. Students are seen as individuals and are highly valued as such. Teachers differentiate instruction, taking into account developmental needs and student interests; they seek to challenge each student, while providing scaffolding for their success.
Making connections and understanding our place in the world is central to our mission. By providing students with opportunities to be involved in learning and serving in their community from the very start, we allow them to see themselves as active participants in their world. Our students leave us with strong voices, minds and hearts.
