In the fall, our Kindergarten class (the Mississippi) went to Minnehaha falls. I learn so much from watching our children explore and wonder. They are scientists and artists and poets at their core and it is my job, my pleasure, to honor what they bring and help them extend that learning and exploration. What does a waterfall feel like? After we saw the magnificent waterfall, students acted out what a.. Read More
One of the gifts of being a teacher in a Quaker, progressive education school such as Friends School of Minnesota is to have the freedom to shape learning and curriculum with the student’s interests and needs in mind. Teachers use their creativity, instinct and intuition, reflection, and knowledge of their student’s interests to create and facilitate learning. Ideas for study can come from many directions and guide learning that is.. Read More
“Do you think gardens are an important part of community? Why or why not?” This was a question posed to Friends School of Minnesota kindergarten students before a neighborhood hike to the community garden. I asked them to hold that question while we walked and sketched. We would discuss their ideas after their experience.
One of the great things about working in a progressive education school like Friends School of Minnesota, is that learning and teaching remain fresh, vibrant, and full. Our school supports teachers and learners to take risks and expand their creative vision, and knowledge base. In this spirit of trying out new and exciting ideas, I introduced kindergarten students to a new structure for learning called Story Workshop. FSMN K-4 teachers have been.. Read More
This year, kindergarten students have been studying food, gardens, and farms as a theme. Collaborating with other teachers, we have been exploring our theme through all sorts of activities. These explorations have fueled a deep curiosity about bees. As our bee project unfolds, it is a wonderful example of progressive education in action.
As we prepared for our Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Celebration, my kindergarten class had many discussions about Dr. King. Students asked important questions about race, identity, and values. My hope is to create an ongoing dialogue with students where they can freely explore, express, and appreciate their uniqueness and beauty, amidst their similarities and differences.
Each time my kindergarten class and I are outdoors together there is value and great learning going on. I take my kindergartners outside often, to the park, side of the schoolyard, and hiking to the community garden.
Halloween brings many opportunities for joyous learning in my kindergarten class.