2021 MCCSC_Elementary.indd

UN I ON V I L L E E L EMEN TA RY

Community Partnership

Student Experiences

Unionville Elementary utilizes the acronym E.A.R.T.H. to inspire learning opportunities and to connect content across the curriculum. E.A.R.T.H. is a model for 21st Century Learning and a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) initiative. Each letter in E.A.R.T.H. represents a topic which is integrated into the curriculum and structure of Unionville Elementary School. E=Environment, A= Art, R= Resources, T=Technology, and H=Health. The school is located on 13 acres, which includes walking trails through the woods, a pond, and two outdoor learning spaces (amphitheatre at the pond and outdoor learning lab on the playground). Unionville School students participate in Club Friday each month which is a part of a larger mission to inspire and nourish a love for teaching and learning. All students have an opportunity to sign up for a club, organized by a Unionville teacher and/ or staff member. Unionville is intentional about seeking ways to strengthen the bond between all adults and children across the school. One of the strategies used is Study Buddies. Each intermediate classroom is paired with a primary classroom and mentoring relationships are formed between pairs of students.

The E.A.R.T.H. vision for teaching and learning positions Unionville Elementary well for the integration of many mutually beneficial relationships with community partners. Unionville engages in these partnerships with dozens of groups and individuals who bring expertise, real world connections, and richness to the curriculum. These partners provide grant opportunities, presentations, field trips, and hands-on experiences. They also provide embedded professional development for the Unionville teachers as they build their skill in delivering E.A.R.T.H. related units and experiences.

I love everything about Unionville, like all of the

activities... the gardening, STEM challenges, and visitors in our classrooms. I even like the work, actually!” —Unionville Elementary student

Fun Fact

Screenwriter and producer, Angelo Pizzo, attended the legendary basketball game when the small and mighty Unionville High School team defeated the Bloomington High School team for the sectional championship. Mr. Pizzo says he was inspired by the environment and energy of the gymnasium that night and that it is reflected in his Oscar- nominated film, Hoosiers .

| 45 Elementary School Guide

Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter maker