Making Learning Visible
Source/Author: Adriana Hollenbeck, Head of The Experiential School of Tampa Bay
March 24, 2022
During this school year the collaboration between The Experiential School office and the Office of Admissions has brought us so many great opportunities to talk about the wonderful experiences that happen in our building. Whether I am working with Alvanita Hope or with Beth Mantooth, one thing is evident: we are so proud to talk about our school!
The admission process at Shorecrest has given me a chance to meet so many new families! Their expressions while touring our building and seeing the learning that’s happening in the classrooms gives us a new dimension to what we risk taking for granted.
Not all places teach like we do, not all schools have the same commitment to an emergent curriculum and to the strong role students play in the process. Our teachers are masters at making learning visible and their documentation is the driving force of a responsive curriculum.
During tours the conversations we have with families often touch on the following key points:
- Reflection
- Learner-centered instruction
- Play-responsive approach
- Collaborative learning
- Problem-solving
- Authentic assessment
- Social interaction
- Meaningful learning experiences
- Supportive environment
Shorecrest is a school that takes pride in valuing children as individual and group learners. I see that so many new families are looking for that.
Prospective families leave the tours understanding that here we see children as protagonists of their own and other’s experiences, as stewards of the world.