Handy Links:

• 2008-2009 Student Supply List
• Comfort Kit Checklist
• First edition of the Swan Explorer newspaper - April 2008
• Haikus written March 2008
• Class Schedule (PDF)

Welcome to the Explorers, Swan School's multi-age primary class! As in a family with children of various ages, students in our multi-age class have opportunities to be part of a cooperative learning community while learning at their individual levels.

Our class meets as a whole group throughout the day (see our Class Schedule), and as is appropriate, divides into small groups or works in pairs or individually on Investigations Math, Reading or Writing Workshops, Science, Social Studies and other learning activities. Through this flexible grouping, the multi-age classroom maximizes learning and promotes cooperation, responsibility and independence.

As a teaching team, Karen and Marcy hold certain core beliefs in common which guide the way we work with the students.

Our first priority is establishing a safe and joyful classroom culture where students can take creative risks and share who they are. Teaching with respect, caring and tolerance, and teaching the children to respect, tolerate differences and to care for one another create this nurturing environment.

Learning experiences that are engaging, relevant, and that tap into students' multiple intelligences through hands-on/minds-on activities prepare students for success. In addition to Math, Reading, Writing, Social Studies and Science, the Explorers have regular opportunities to explore the arts and the world around them. Needlework, art, field trips, visitors, art history, music appreciation, singing, poetry and drama are integrated into our regular curriculum (see our Class Schedule).

We value the opportunity to share the job of educating your children with you, their parents and first teachers, and we welcome parent volunteers! Let us know if you would like to help.

Look for weekly email updates on classroom news. Communication is important to us so feel free to contact us via e-mail, in person after school, or by phone. We look forward to sharing the learning journey with each of you and your child.

Email Karen at karen@swanschool.net
Email Marcy at marcy@swanschool.net