As our children move from the Angelitos class into the Grade School class we continue to nourish the confidence that our children have gained in their ability to be active learners. Through the exploration of big ideas we are able to meet the “state standards” by focusing on the process of learning and not merely on the content of material to be learned. Our children are guided in becoming lifelong learners who enjoy learning and understand the process of learning. Loris Malaguzzi described this type of learning well when he said,” Learning and teaching should not stand on opposite banks and just watch the river flow by; instead, they should embark together on a journey down the water. Through an active, reciprocal exchange, teaching can strengthen learning how to learn.”

In the grade school we have created a weekly schedule that coincides with the level of learning that our children have demonstrated. Once a week we are engaged in community activities; serving our community, engaged in learning activities, and on field trips. Two school days are dedicated to learning in English and two school days are dedicated to learning in Spanish. As with all of our classes at Escuela Viva we offer a flexible daily routine that allows room for us to follow the many ideas, inspirations, and other special moments that arise.

Here is what a day in the Grade School class often looks like: