Overview of our School Curriculum

"Rather than simply absorbing ideas spoken at them by teachers, or somehow internalizing them through endless, repeated rote practice, Constructivism posits that children actually invent their ideas. "
- Strommen, 1992

Our teachers are the backbone of our program. Each teacher is trained to assess the learning style of each child, and to design curriculum strategies that will enable each child to gain the academic skills outlined in the California Curriculum Framework. Classroom activities will also be structured to encourage the development of interpersonal skills, a sense of social responsibility, and to offer each child the opportunity to explore his or her creative potential. Each day will include interdisciplinary instruction in language arts (reading and writing), mathematics, science, social studies, Spanish, and physical education. Classes in drama, dance, music, or visual arts will be offered every afternoon. We also have a community garden we plan on incorporating into classroom curriculum. Each grade level will undertake age appropriate community service projects.

Some web sites that discuss the Constructivist philosophy of teaching:

Curriculum Links

• Constructivism as a Paradigm for Teaching and Learning
• Is It Constructivism?
• Resources for Constructivism

Charter School and other Education Links

• California Charter School Association
• The Center For Education Reform
• US Charter Schools
• California Frameworks and Standards
• SD Unified School District

Community Resources for Enhanced Skills

• Community Music Education at Villa Musica (a UCSD program)
• Reading Enhancement at the Community Reading Clinic (a SDSU program)