The parents and teacher at Taller Colibri have collaborated on creating this statement of our philosophy and intent at the school. We are just about to conclude a successful first year.
On Curriculum:
--A child-centered curriculum promotes motivation and self-determined challenges.
--A project-based curriculum helps to ensure a multimodal approach, addressing diverse learning styles.
--Find the teachable moments instead of pushing a prefabbed agenda - in each situation and with individual children
--Contact with Oaxaca's culture, natural attractions, language, traditions and historic places is an integral part of the school's identity.
--Real learning emerges comes from the freedom to explore (especially within the natural world, or with the help of interesting resources and materials.)
On structure:
--A multiage classroom promotes deeper learning and more open peer relationships.
--The day follows a rhythm that reflects the needs of the students, moving between outdoor, indoor, whole group and individual activities.
--The school is cooperative. Members make decisions together and share work and responsibilities.
Educational philosophy:
--Traditional academic knowledge is no more valuable than other types of knowledge and ways of interacting with the world
--ACTIVE learning and CURIOSITY about the world are the most important things to foster and help inspire.
--Learning is fun. We all learn from each other (teachers are students, students are teachers).
--The best way to 'teach' children to care for the natural environment is to give them time and space to enjoy it - children naturally love the world
--Trust the growing process of each child - do not push children to achieve outward measurements of success
--Let kids be kids
--Model kindness
--Learning can be messy
