PILLARS OF PROGRESSIVE EDUCATION AT THE ORCHARD SCHOOL
HANDS-ON, EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING Experiential learning, or “learning by doing,” has long been a hallmark of an education at The Orchard School. By engaging the learners in direct experiences designed to foster application of knowledge and problem-solving skills, Orchard teachers create real-life experiences that enable children to utilize social and academic skills and to make the connections for experiencing history, applying math and science, and understanding the concept of interdependence. OUTDOOR EDUCATION Outdoor education is education in, about, and for the out of doors. In an increasingly urban world, nature plays a central part in the education of the whole child. Direct experiences help students to gain a deeper understanding of life around them, to foster respect for an understanding of the interrelationships within the natural environment, and to develop an appreciation of people’s interdependence with the natural world. DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION We value the dignity, worth, and experiences of every person. Experiencing and learning about diversity helps people relate to each other and the world with greater respect, understanding, and kindness. To that end, Orchard educates the whole child by integrating social responsibility, moral character, respect, inclusivity, and equitable treatment of all people into our curriculum and policies, including admissions, hiring, financial assistance, and professional development. SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL LEARNING Our focus is on the development of the whole child — socially, emotionally, cognitively, physically, artistically, and ethically within a supportive and challenging environment. During these formative years when children are curious and inquisitive, we provide them with opportunities to discover, explore, and experiment. Children learn best by doing, thinking, reasoning, creating, and collaborating through their active participation in the learning process.
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