Learning Philosophy

• Relationship-Centered Learning – Children learn best when they feel safe and connected.
• Everyday Learning Matters – Learning happens through play, projects, and daily life.
• Developmentally Responsive – Lessons are tailored to the unique needs of young learners.
• Curiosity and Creativity Drive Engagement – Students explore learning through wonder and inquiry.
• Supported Independence – Educators and caregivers provide early guidance while fostering student autonomy.

Engaging Digital Learning Environment

• Utilizes Gather Town, an interactive, game-like platform for virtual learning.
• Students can move through digital spaces, interact with peers, and co-create their learning environment.
• Encourages autonomy, collaboration, and creativity while offering one-on-one support when needed.

Role of Parents & Caregivers

• Parents are learning partners in the early stages but step back as students gain independence.
• The goal is for students to develop confidence and skills to manage their own learning.
• Weekly extension activities provide additional opportunities for learning at home.

Key Learning Components

1. Community Gathering & Connection
   1. Daily morning meetings focus on relationship-building, goal-setting, and social-emotional growth.
2. Skill-Building & Core Academics
   1. Dedicated reading, writing, and math instruction in small groups and interactive activities.
   2. Learning is hands-on, inquiry-driven, and tailored to student goals.
3. Project-Based Learning (PBL)
   1. Interest-driven projects that integrate STEM, humanities, and real-world problem-solving.
   2. Students document progress in a project log, which they share with caregivers.
4. Collaborative Learning
   1. Peer-driven discussions, book studies, and cross-disciplinary activities.
   2. Encourages critical thinking, teamwork, and resilience.
5. Independent & Community Learning
   1. Recognizes learning beyond the classroom (e.g., cooking, music lessons, field trips).
   2. Helps students connect learning to real-world experiences and develop self-awareness.

Gradual Independence & Skill Development

• WonderED fosters essential skills for upper elementary and beyond, including:
  • Executive function skills (planning, time management, flexibility).
  • Self-advocacy and problem-solving.
  • Digital literacy and online communication.

Flexible Daily & Weekly Schedule

• Learning hours vary by grade, with a balance of structured and independent activities.
• Kindergarten starts with 1.5-2 hours/day, increasing to 3.5-5 hours/day for 4th graders.
• Weekly schedules allow for a mix of virtual learning, project work, and home-based exploration.

Early Learner Objectives

Academic Foundations

Literacy & Communication:

• Read fluently at or above a 5th-grade level
• Comprehend and summarize fiction and nonfiction texts
• Express ideas in writing with clear sentence structure and organization
• Use phonics, spelling, and grammar rules accurately
• Engage in discussions, ask thoughtful questions, and express opinions

Mathematics & Problem-Solving:

• Demonstrate fluency in basic math facts (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
• Understand place value, fractions, and basic geometry concepts
• Apply problem-solving strategies to real-world scenarios
• Interpret and analyze simple data representations (charts, graphs)

Critical Thinking & Inquiry

• Ask open-ended questions and explore multiple solutions to problems
• Make predictions and draw conclusions based on evidence
• Reflect on learning experiences and articulate areas of growth
• Follow multi-step directions and complete complex tasks independently

Executive Functioning & Self-Management

• Manage time effectively and follow a structured daily schedule
• Set personal learning goals and track progress
• Begin assignments independently and complete tasks with minimal redirection
• Demonstrate persistence when faced with challenges
• Organize materials and workspace efficiently

 Collaboration & Social-Emotional Development

• Work cooperatively with peers in small groups and projects
• Listen actively and respond respectfully in discussions
• Resolve conflicts constructively using communication strategies
• Demonstrate empathy and awareness of others' perspectives
• Follow school-wide behavioral expectations and contribute to a positive learning environment

Digital & Research Skills

• Navigate basic technology tools (Google Docs, educational platforms)
• Type short responses and navigate digital assignments independently
• Conduct basic research using books, articles, and supervised internet resources
• Understand the importance of digital citizenship (safe and respectful online behavior)

Project-Based Learning Readiness

• Engage in hands-on, inquiry-based learning activities
• Demonstrate curiosity and willingness to explore new topics
• Present ideas through written, verbal, or creative formats
• Participate in interdisciplinary learning experiences that connect subjects

***These skills are all in development, meaning that students are continuously building their proficiency over time. While a parent's role becomes less hands-on at the Cadet level, it is still expected that parents remain available to support their child as needed, in alignment with our Rule of Thirds. This ensures that students receive the appropriate guidance while fostering independence and self-management.