Math teacher Carrie Fink works with students in small groups.
Our philosophy of teaching and learning is grounded in research that spells out clearly how children learn. The research shows that:
1. Students learn best when they know the teacher cares about them. Relationships come first.
2. Different students learn at different paces and in many different ways. What works for one, might not work for another. Teachers must mix up their instruction to make it accessible for all students.
3. Most students learn best from doing. Hands-on activities engage students in active learning, which stimulates the brain and makes it easier to remember.
4. Positive classroom culture is an important component of learning. How students treat each other sets a tone for the learning environment. So does the physical space and routines/rituals.
5. Students must be able to assess their own learning and understand the progress they have made — and what they need to do — to achieve learning goals.
6. Learning must be relevant and applicable to students’ lives.
7. The instruction must be intentionally linked to other lessons, clearly articulated and understood by students.
8. Assessment of student progress must be continual. Effective teachers make adjustments in instruction to meet students where they are on a daily basis.
