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“It is not what you do for your children, but what you have taught them to do for themselves, that will make them successful human beings."
Ann Landers
IMAGE OF THE CHILD
A child is born competent, capable, and already a natural researcher who has a desire for knowledge. Children do not need to be taught how or what to think, they should be encouraged to share their ideas fearlessly with others and collaborate with peers to seek the answers to their own questions!
We also understand that every child develops at their own pace, in their own time. We embrace every bit of who they are, no matter their age or stage, and celebrate the wonderful differences that make up our classroom dynamic. We view children as equal members of our community and classroom. We speak to them the same way we speak to a best friend, with kindness, compassion, and empathy. Children hold a deep sense of wonder and curiosity that is inspiring and contagious. Their innate quest for knowledge is what propels our learning journeys.
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EMERGENT CURRICULUM
& PROJECT BASED APPROACH
Children are treated as active collaborators in their education, as opposed to passive observers. Our curriculum is based on children’s interests and the daily observations teachers make about what topics their students are curious about. After observing children at play and engaged in new experiences, the teachers reflect upon their observations to plan new activities and long-term projects. Ideas for projects come from both the children and the teachers. We often refer to these projects investigations, adventures, or explorations. Our projects or investigations​ can last anywhere from a few days to several months. Teachers lay out academic, physical, emotional and social goals for the children and make intentional choices in designing and implementing the curriculum to ensure that the children are challenged academically in all areas, including math, science, and literacy.
REPRESENTATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
We always invite children to present their ideas and learning in many forms: print, art, drama, dance, music, puppetry, etc. Students can demonstrate their ideas in many different ways, and giving the space for all of these efforts to flourish helps each child build confidence and excitement about their learning.
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COLLABORATION
Basing the course of study on the children's interests creates a collaborative environment that helps foster skills like teamwork, negotiation, compromising, and patience. Asking the children to help direct the course of learning makes them to feel heard and respected and encourages their sense of self-worth.
OUR ENVIRONMENT & OUTDOOR LEARNING
The classroom utilizes the child’s senses, relying on sight, sound, touch and even taste and smell to guide the learning journey. Our Reggio Emilia inspired classrooms are different than your average preschool, with large common spaces, natural elements and lots of accessible and thought-provoking materials. Our building use to function as a church in the 1900's, which has granted us a unique opportunity for considerably large classrooms, high ceilings, and lots of natural light. Both our indoor and outdoor classrooms emphasize natural materials and exploration, valuing our surroundings as another educator. Elements of nature such as snow, leaves and sticks are brought into the classroom regularly as children are encouraged to develop a relationship with the world around them.
COMMUNITY EXPLORATION
The Reggio Emilia approach values the close interaction between teachers, parents, community and children. Children are seen as collaborators and valued members of their community. Local partnerships are also an important role in children’s education, which is why we often take walking fieldtrips to local businesses. We aim to present unique knowledge in various cultures, intergenerational relationships, and a sense of belonging in a larger group. At Foothill, we strive to support local businesses and involve children in every step of that effort.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY & SOCIAL JUSTICE
We believe in the importance of teaching our students how to be active members of our community. Our gardens and recycling/up-cycling programs teach children how to learn to care for our earth, living creatures and our community. We encourage kids to participate in projects that reinforce the idea that young children can make a difference. We learn about all religions, holidays and keep an inclusive approach to all people. Our annual PRIDE celebration is also our favorite time of the year! We tie-dye clothes to wear as we walk with pride alongside one another through our community, and then return to the school for a PRIDE Potluck luncheon. All of our families and friends are welcome to join this celebration each year.
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