LEARNING SQUADS

"Mixed-age classrooms allow children to learn at their own pace, while also learning from and teaching their peers. It’s a model that encourages collaboration, empathy, and leadership."

— Deborah Meier

EMBER SQUAD

Ages 4-6

SQUAD FOCUS

-Ignite their love of learning.

-Obtain core skills of reading, writing, and basic math

-Social and Emotional growth

-Physical growth through lots of play and movement

LEARNING OUTLINE

Young leaders expand their learning through various opportunities for exploration and creative expression. Our schedule includes open-ended, collaborative projects, imaginative play, and time spent in nature. Emotional literacy is a central focus of our Ember Squad, where we prioritize social and emotional development, fostering wellness as a key foundation for nurturing self-directed learning.

IGNITE SQUAD

Ages 7-11

SQUAD FOCUS

-Discover their passions/interests

-Self-paced academics

-Skill Discovery and Development

-Physical Fitness

LEARNING OUTLINE

In our Ignite Squad, we inspire young people to connect with their own unique talents and abilities. Our balanced approach to education nurtures curiosity, creativity, and the skill to ask thoughtful questions. The squad is structured to provide flexible spaces for work, learning, and play. It’s a close-knit community of mixed-age children who support and collaborate with one another every day. This environment cultivates respect and plays a vital role in the character development that takes place here.

ASCEND SQUAD

Ages 12-14

SQUAD FOCUS

-Explore their Options

-Self-Paced Academics

-Internships/Apprenticeships

-Physical Fitness

-Real-World Application

LEARNING OUTLINE

In our Ascend Squad, we help your Leader(s) apply the skills they've developed in previous Squads to real-world situations. We start by assessing their strengths and interests from their time in the Discover Squad, and then guide them in understanding how to use those skills in practical settings, such as internships, apprenticeships, and taking on larger roles and responsibilities on campus.