At PNA, we believe in the value of social-emotional learning, which is why we use Responsive Classroom as our curriculum. An especially important part of this program is having students discuss their hopes and dreams, and then collaborate in creating the classroom rules. This encourages students to take ownership of their environment and understand the expectations of their behavior. It creates a strong classroom community, and we have seen this process work in classrooms from Kindergarten to 8th grade.
The process of creating classroom rules starts with a discussion of why rules are important. Then students have the opportunity to brainstorm their individual ideas about what makes for an ideal classroom environment. After sharing these ideas, the class works together to compose a list of rules. By being directly involved in this process, students gain a sense of pride and belonging, and they are better prepared to follow the rules that they have created.
Programs at Pacific Northern Academy in Anchorage, AK
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PRESCHOOL
In our Preschool classrooms, we focus on each child’s social development and positive associations. Everyday we see how our students are growing and developing their love for learning; with intentional, compassionate effort we guide them towards fun, safe engagement, finding their friends, and participating within a diverse group of peers. From a parent’s perspective, you’ll know that you are setting your child up for success when you hear all the happy stories coming home.
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LOWER SCHOOL
In our Lower School classrooms, students have a loving home-away-from-home. Our community of learners is a positive, supportive, and safe place where children are excited to go each day because they feel like they belong. The social-emotional methodologies we employ, like Responsive Classroom, give each student the tools they need to be kind, sympathetic, and self-advocating individuals. Providing this inclusive atmosphere allows our students the freedom to be themselves, strengthening our whole community.
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MIDDLE SCHOOL
We understand how difficult and confusing this stage of life can be for students. To enhance the positive aspects of adolescence, we recognize each child where they are to help them find their own path forward. We are acutely focused on providing a supportive, safe space for students to be themselves, where they are better able to communicate and connect authentically with their peers and teachers. Graduates of the PNA Middle School are confident, they are people of character, and they are able to appreciate themselves and each other for who they are.
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