English Language Arts (ELA)
Research-Based Approach: We have adopted the EL Education ELA curriculum, which is one of the most highly rated curricula in the country. Our curriculum is rooted in the Science of Reading, and our students receive the explicit, research-based instruction they need to become fluent, confident, life-long readers.
Narrowing Learning Gaps: Upon entry into school, we engage students in benchmark assessments to help us determine where individual students are on a research-based progression of literacy skills. Once we determine each students’ entry point, we tailor student groupings and learning experiences to ensure that students receive the exact instruction they need to narrow learning gaps and progress in their reading proficiency.
Meticulously Crafted Curriculum: The EL ELA curriculum was developed by a highly capable national team of reading teachers who crafted the instructional material with careful consideration and detailed guidelines for implementation. Each component is thoughtfully designed to align with educational standards and learning objectives, fostering a cohesive and progressive learning experience.
Seamless Integration of ELA Skills: Our curriculum integrates reading, writing, research, speaking and listening as students engage in a meaningful progression of learning tasks throughout each module and unit. Moreover, English Language Arts skills are seamlessly woven into students’ learning experiences throughout the academic program, creating a symbiotic relationship between language proficiency and learning in other subject areas. This integration not only enhances language skills but also reinforces understanding and retention of content in science and social studies.
Holistic Learning Experience: Our academic program goes beyond isolated subject areas or books, fostering a holistic learning experience for students. By blending ELA with science and social studies, we create a learning environment that encourages the development of background knowledge and interdisciplinary connections, preparing students for a more integrated understanding of the world around them.
In summary, our curriculum prepares our learners to become proficient lovers of reading and curious investigators of the world around them. The EL Education is thoroughly based in the Science of Reading and is meticulously crafted and implemented so that students’ individual learning needs are addressed. ELA skills are seamlessly integrated with science and social studies topics, providing students with a holistic and interconnected educational experience.
Project and Place-Based Learning (PBL): Nurturing Holistic and Practical Skill Development
At LVFFS, Project and Place-Based Learning serves as the cornerstone of our educational philosophy. This innovative approach empowers students to not only acquire academic knowledge but also apply it in real-world scenarios. Through hands-on, student-led projects, we aim to cultivate a diverse set of skills while encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of various subjects.
Empowering Multifaceted Skill Development: PBL at LVFFS goes beyond traditional education methods. By engaging in hands-on projects, students become active participants in their learning journey. Whether designing bridges, water systems, crafting plays, or cultivating gardens, students have the opportunity to develop a broad range of skills—from problem-solving and teamwork to communication and creativity.
Student-Led Exploration: Our approach places students at the center of their learning experience. Through self-directed projects, students take ownership of their education, fostering a sense of responsibility and autonomy. This not only enhances their motivation but also allows them to explore their interests and passions in a meaningful way.
Integration of Scientific and Historical Inquiry: PBL seamlessly integrates scientific inquiry and historical exploration into projects. As students tackle real-world problems, they naturally delve into scientific principles, historical context, and geographical considerations. This integration not only strengthens their foundational knowledge but also provides a comprehensive understanding of subjects in a practical context.
Cultivating Curiosity and Critical Thinking: Our PBL approach places a strong emphasis on fostering curiosity and critical thinking. By addressing authentic challenges, students are encouraged to question, analyze, and explore solutions. This process not only deepens their understanding of subjects but also equips them with valuable problem-solving skills applicable beyond the classroom.
Real-World Relevance: The projects undertaken by students are designed to have real-world relevance. Whether they are solving engineering challenges, creating artistic expressions, or developing entrepreneurial ideas, students see the direct application of their learning. This connection to the real world enhances their sense of purpose and prepares them for success in dynamic and evolving environments.
Preparation for a Dynamic World: In today's rapidly changing world, adaptability and creativity are paramount. Our PBL approach is tailored to prepare students for success in such a dynamic environment. By emphasizing creativity, problem-solving, and real-world application, we equip students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in various professional and personal contexts.
In essence, Project and Place-Based Learning at LVFFS is not just an educational method; it's a transformative experience that nurtures well-rounded individuals ready to tackle the challenges of the 21st century with creativity, critical thinking, and a passion for lifelong learning.
Social Emotional Leaning (SEL)
The Choose Love program is a comprehensive social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum that integrates various educational and psychological approaches to promote holistic development in students. This program combines elements of Growth Mindset, Neuroscience, Mindfulness, Positive Psychology, Post-Traumatic Growth, and Emotional Intelligence, providing a well-rounded foundation for both emotional and academic growth.
Aligned with the established standards of Character.org and CASEL, the Choose Love curriculum supports character development and the enhancement of social-emotional skills, which are vital for effective learning and healthy interpersonal interactions. By integrating these frameworks, the program not only addresses academic achievement but also personal development, preparing students to navigate the complexities of modern educational and social environments effectively.
Ancestral Skills Enrichment: Nurturing Cultural Connection and Practical Proficiency
Cooking and Baking: The inclusion of ancestral cooking and baking skills not only imparts culinary proficiency but also serves as a conduit to cultural heritage. Students learn traditional recipes, understand the significance of ingredients, and gain insights into the cultural narratives intertwined with food preparation. This hands-on experience fosters a connection to their roots while developing practical life skills.
Fabric Arts and Weaving: Exploring fabric arts and weaving goes beyond the creation of tangible items; it is a journey into cultural expression and historical practices. Students engage in the art of weaving, understanding its historical context, and appreciating the cultural significance of different textile patterns. This not only hones their creative abilities but also reinforces a deep sense of cultural identity.
Cultural Connection Through Creativity: Ancestral skills, such as cooking, baking, fabric arts, and weaving, become channels for creative expression. Through these practices, students not only learn practical skills but also connect with their cultural heritage in a meaningful way. This creative exploration reinforces a sense of pride and belonging, contributing to a holistic understanding of their cultural identity.
Preservation of Traditional Practices: Integrating ancestral skills into the curriculum plays a crucial role in preserving traditional practices that may otherwise be at risk of fading away. Students actively participate in and contribute to the preservation of cultural practices, ensuring that the rich tapestry of traditions is passed down to future generations.
Bridging Generations: Ancestral skills often carry with them stories, wisdom, and a connection to previous generations. Through the learning of these skills, students bridge the generational gap, gaining insights into the practices that have shaped their communities. This intergenerational exchange fosters a sense of continuity and shared heritage.
Practical Knowledge for Sustainable Living: Beyond cultural enrichment, ancestral skills encompass practical knowledge essential for sustainable living. Skills like fishing, carving, tracking, and shelter building architecture not only connect students with traditional practices but also equip them with practical tools for survival and sustainable living in diverse environments.
In essence, the integration of ancestral skills within our educational program is not just about acquiring practical proficiency; it's a journey into cultural richness, creative expression, and the preservation of traditions. By embracing these skills, students not only gain practical knowledge but also develop a profound connection to their cultural heritage, fostering a well-rounded and culturally enriched educational experience.
MATH
In our approach to mathematics at LVFFS, we aim to cultivate confident, flexible, problem-solvers. Students learn far more than quick methods of calculation; instead, we cultivate a profound understanding of the how visual and creative mathematics can be by immersing students in investigative, flexible, and collaborative learning. We utilize Open Up Math resources, which is among the most highly rated mathematics curriculum in the country.
Investigative Learning: By engaging in investigative learning, students come to realize that mathematics is not confined to textbooks and classrooms. Instead, they discover its ubiquity in various aspects of the world around them. This approach encourages curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper appreciation for the practical applications of mathematical concepts.
Complex Instruction: At LVFFS, we embrace Complex Instruction as the foundation of our math instruction. This approach has proven to be effective for achieving both intellectual and social learning objectives. It goes beyond rote memorization, emphasizing conceptual learning and creative problem-solving, which are crucial for developing a robust understanding of mathematics.
Benefits of Complex Instruction:
Conceptual Learning: Complex Instruction emphasizes understanding over memorization. Students delve into the underlying principles of mathematical concepts, fostering a deeper and more meaningful comprehension of the subject.
Creative Problem Solving: The approach encourages students to tackle complex problems in innovative ways. This not only enhances their problem-solving skills but also nurtures a mindset that values creativity and ingenuity in mathematical thinking.
Academic Language Proficiency: Complex Instruction is instrumental in developing academic language proficiency in mathematics. Students not only grasp mathematical concepts but also learn to articulate and communicate their understanding effectively.
Incorporating Jo Boaler's Research: Our math curriculum is informed by research, particularly drawing inspiration from the works of Jo Boaler, a renowned Professor of Mathematics Education at the Stanford Graduate School of Education. Boaler's research insights contribute to the development of instructional strategies that align with current educational best practices.
Social Impact: Beyond academic achievements, our math curriculum has positive social implications. Complex Instruction has the potential to improve intergroup relations among students. By fostering trust and friendliness in collaborative learning environments, it contributes to a positive social atmosphere within the classroom.
In summary, our mathematics program at LVFFS is designed to go beyond traditional teaching methods. Through investigative learning and the principles of Complex Instruction, students not only master mathematical concepts but also develop critical thinking skills, creativity, and effective communication, all while benefiting from the insights derived from the research of leading international experts like Jo Boaler.
Land Stewardship: Nurturing Connections Between Students and the Environment
In the Land Stewardship class, the farm and forest serve as dynamic classrooms, fostering an immersive learning experience that goes beyond traditional settings. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected web of life, encompassing everything from water and animals to trees, elements, and the broader context of globalization.
Outdoor Classroom Experience: The farm and forest become more than just locations; they transform into living, breathing classrooms. Through direct engagement with the natural environment, students develop a profound connection with the world around them. This hands-on approach encourages experiential learning, making concepts tangible and fostering a deeper appreciation for the Earth's intricacies.
Holistic Exploration: Land-based learning, coupled with cooking and hands-on projects, creates a holistic exploration of the Earth's functioning systems. Students not only grasp theoretical knowledge but also gain practical insights into sustainable practices. This immersive approach promotes a more profound understanding of ecological principles and the delicate balance between human activities and the natural world.
Earth Stewardship and Community Care: The course emphasizes the concept of stewardship, instilling in students a sense of responsibility for the Earth and their communities. By exploring our role in environmental conservation, students learn how individual actions can contribute to the well-being of the planet. This approach goes beyond theoretical discussions, empowering students to actively participate in the care and preservation of the environment.
Beyond Geographic Boundaries: While the class is grounded in the local context, it transcends geographical limitations. The curriculum intentionally incorporates elements of environmental and human diversity, ensuring that students are exposed to a global perspective. This not only broadens their understanding of different cultures but also nurtures the development of global thinkers who appreciate the interconnectedness of our world.
Celebrating Cultural Differences: Land Stewardship goes beyond environmental education; it becomes a platform for celebrating cultural differences. By integrating diverse perspectives and experiences, the class fosters an inclusive environment where students learn to respect and appreciate the richness of cultural diversity. This approach not only enhances cultural competence but also cultivates empathy and a sense of global citizenship.
Nurturing Global Thinkers: The ultimate goal of the class is to mold students into global thinkers. Through an exploration of the environment, sustainable practices, and diverse cultures, students develop critical thinking skills and a broader worldview. They are encouraged to consider the global implications of their actions and decisions, preparing them to contribute positively to an interconnected and interdependent world.
In essence, the Land Stewardship class offers a transformative educational experience, using the natural environment as a catalyst for learning, fostering environmental responsibility, celebrating diversity, and cultivating global thinking among students.