University Schools: Academics

Education in the elementary school is student centered. The curriculum, room arrangement, choice of educational materials and communication format is intended to help the student take increasing interest in and responsibility for his/her own learning. Each student has a personal advisor to act as an advocate for the student in the school. Each advisor has a group of advisees, usually around 15-25 students. In the elementary school this is one of the student's classroom teachers. Students usually participate in classroom organization through classroom jobs, group discussions, etc.

Parents are welcome in the school. They may visit when they wish. Often their help may be needed for school related activities such as reading, transportation to field trips, or other classroom activities. Parents are considered a part of the student's learning team. Each classroom communicates with the parents to let them know how students may be helped and encouraged at home with the student's ongoing education. At the beginning of the school year and each term, parents, students, and advisors will meet to discus the student's progress and to set up a Formal Learning Plan for the following term. Parents will also receive copies of the student's progress reports.

Much of the teaching is hands-on, real life or simulated experience. Such activity-based education is intended t help students participate in their own education to the fullest extent possible. A whole language approach is used for communication skills. This includes reading/writing workshops, oral demonstrations, listening skills, personal to conventional spelling and phonics. Each student is considered as a unique individual whose own learning needs and abilities are incorporated into a personal plan for educational growth. Students will be measured against a standard of growth for other students of the same age/grade level, but care is taken to assist the child to understand his or her own special potential and needs in order that each student may make the maximum possible growth during the year with the least possible frustration.

Every person associated with the elementary school, whether students, parents, teachers or other staff members will be treated with respect. A positive, problem solving approach is used. Each individual is valued for the contribution he or she has to make to the school and community.

Elementary Academics