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Mission and Philosophy

Mission

The Miquon School treasures and celebrates childhood. We give our students time to play and grow. Our program and our environment encourage wonder, inquiry, independence, and discovery. We seek to create confident, life-long learners who will move out into the wider world with strong academic and social skills, intense personal interests, a love for the arts, and a commitment to building inclusive and peaceful communities. We are dedicated to learning together in the rich tradition of Progressive education that is our founders’ legacy.

 

Philosophy: Our 10 Tenets

We have prioritized and defined the 10 specific Progressive philosophies that hold meaning for us. We find these tenets to have enduring value as the world changes around us, and we return to them frequently to reflect upon our professional practice, goals for students, and hopes for the future.

  • Children learn by doing.
    Projects and hands-on experiences are essential parts of our program that stimulate their desire to learn. Our children participate enthusiastically in meaningful work.
  • Helping children learn to think is as important as teaching any specific subject matter.
    As our children acquire knowledge and skills, we strengthen their ability to use those resources effectively. We prepare our children to be effective problem-solvers in every facet of their lives.
  • Learning occurs in ways unique to each child.
    We focus on children as individuals, and we respect their many learning styles. Thoughtful observation of children, as they learn, serves to shape and strengthen our teaching.
  • Children’s curiosity and initiative are integral to their education.
    Our planned instruction is augmented by opportunities for children to pursue their own interests. We give them time to explore, discover, dream, and create.
  • Independence is a vital part of every child’s development.
    We provide guidance and support as they apply their skills within expanding boundaries. With increasing freedom comes greater demand for self-discipline and responsibility; meeting that expectation promotes self-confidence.
  • Working with others enhances children’s growth in every domain.
    We value and encourage collaboration in the classroom and at play. We welcome diversity of ideas, abilities, and cultures.
  • Every person is a thinker, creator, and contributor.
    We maintain a community in which all can find their places as respected members.
  • The natural world is a place to learn.
    We treasure our unique environment. As part of a lesson or a source of playful revelation, nature weaves its way into every child’s experience.
  • Childhood should be fun, and children should find joy in learning.
    That joy comes from an inquisitive wonder at the universe they inhabit and confidence in their capacity to understand it.
  • Children can be upstanders and agents of change.
    Fostering respect for differences and developing the skills to challenge racism, hate, and bigotry helps children to make positive contributions to the world.

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