A Progressive School
Aurora is a Progressive School. The Progressive School Movement has a long history in the United States dating back to the middle of the 19th century and is anchored to a belief that the goal of education is to prepare citizens for active participation in a democratic society. Students in our classrooms are respected as thinkers with emerging ideas about the world and the boundaries between school and society are limitless. Other characteristics of Aurora's commitment to progressive education include:
Freedom to Explore
Children and adults in our community are encouraged to explore their own thinking and ideas. They are given permission and supported to dig deeper, learn more, ask questions, make mistakes, reformulate their ideas and then share what they have learned.
Choice
Aurora students are at the heart of the decision making process in our classrooms. Students are involved in making personal choices about their learning, as well as group decisions for their classroom community. Allowing our students choices supports them in becoming more receptive and responsible learners.
Encouraging Activism
To be an active member of a democracy requires a social conscience, an understanding of the responsibilities of citizenship and a desire to make things better. Through participation in the classroom community and service learning projects, our students gain the skills and confidence they need to make a difference in the world.
Relevant and Meaningful Learning
At the heart of our teaching is a desire to make learning meaningful and relevant to the lives of our students. In "Writers' Workshop" children write publish and share their pieces with real audiences. In mathematics they solve real world problems and learn to apply and appreciate the power of their understanding and problem-solving ability. As scientists they learn to ask questions about the world and are guided the path of discovery. In social studies they dramatize and sing about key historical events and personalities, bringing them to life.
Ongoing Reflection of Children and Practice
Our teachers work tirelessly to expand their personal knowledge of their students - understanding their particular learning styles, interests, family background and experiences to more fully support their academic, social and emotional growth. In addition, they are continuously reflecting on their own strengths and areas of growth and their practice.
Play
Play is a child's first language. When children are at play, they are learning - exploring the world around them on their own terms, solving problems on the run, making choices, expressing their feelings and thoughts, discovering their own creative abilities, and developing language and social skills. At Aurora we value play and incorporate it into our students' experience at all grade levels.
Culturally Responsive Teaching and Learning
Teachers provide instruction that is culturally responsive, inclusive and is consistent with the greater community's cultural characteristics. It is our goal that the Aurora School experience closely reflects the realities of pluralism and cultural diversity. Teachers help children connect to their own personal heritage and help them feel positive about the group to which they belong.