"Inspiring the academic, analytical, creative and compassionate voice of learners"
Our aim is to teach students to 'learn how to learn' and to 'learn for life'. Hence, it is my firm belief that learning is not something which is done to the student; rather, it is something the student does. With this philosophy in mind, our program draws from personal, local and global issues that are relevant to students and integrates these issues into a challenging, creative and innovative curriculum. It has been my experience that when children are challenged with relevant learning tasks, they 'learn for life'. When they are given the opportunities, the skills and the tools to take ownership for their learning, they 'learn how to learn'. In essence, the learning must take place in a democratic environment that strives toward high expectations, respects each child's voice and celebrates his/her achievements. Our program provides an alternative because it is balanced as such;
- It provides an excellent teacher/student ratio and individualized attention.
- It makes curriculum meaningful through the integration of personal, local and global issues.
- It encompasses a balance of learner centered approaches as well as teacher directed lessons.
- It provides learners with opportunities to work independently as well as cooperatively.
- It enables students to develop strong basic skills in reading, writing and mathematics, and places importance on higher order skills such as critical and analytical thinking, problem solving, cooperation, time management and organization.
- It focuses on specific subjects, but also integrates curriculum areas to help students make vital connections.
- It explores many perspectives and values the perspective of each child.
- It draws from the past, investigates the present and inspires students to envision and strive for possible and preferred futures.
- It embraces teacher directed evaluation and expects self evaluation from each student.
- It is a democratic environment where children can feel safe from bullying and free of exclusion.
- It is an environment of 'rights and responsibilities' with a strict demand for self respect, respect for others and respect for the environment.
In such a setting, I have watched children become academic achievers and responsible citizens. I have seen them gain empathy and conflict resolution skills which they take with them far beyond the classroom. I have watched them develop enthusiasm toward learning and a positive attitude toward school. Most important, they begin to trust their gifts, become decision makers and feel proud of their accomplishments. These are the critical steps toward becoming a 'life long learner'.
Marie Lardino B.A, B.Ed, M.Ed.
VOICE Principal and Lead Teacher