Curriculum: Educational Philosophy

Classroom Structure

Classroom structure and curriculum take into account the developmental stage of students. The younger children are in a self-contained classroom with a head teacher, assistant teacher, and often a student teacher. Their classroom is the center of all learning activities with social studies, science, math, reading and writing, and the expressive creative arts integrated into the daily work and play of the children. Although they leave their room for outdoor time, and time with specialists in music, gym, movement, and art, their classroom life offers them the emotional security provided by a small stable community and familiar environment. As students progress through the school, informational demands increase in the various subject areas and children see more specialist teachers. While subject areas are clearly defined and studied, the concept of the self-contained classroom continues to influence the schedule and classroom organization. For example, in the Upper School, math/science and humanities teachers work together to develop a community that each student feels a part of.