The BCS Classroom:

For over 35 years, BCS has successfully implemented a multi-age, non-graded teaching and learning model. Teachers and parents at BCS recognize and support the following concepts:

• Individuals learn at different rates and with different styles and interests.
• Learning is enhanced by positive interactions with people and the environment.
• The optimum environment for children's learning supports risk-taking, enhances self-esteem, and encourages decision-making.
• Effective education must include the social, emotional and intellectual development of each child.
• Compassionate communication and clear boundaries enhance self-esteem and model healthy social behavior.
• Students learn best when they are highly involved in their own learning process, ultimately learning by teaching themselves.

Preschool

The preschool curriculum follows a developmentally appropriate daily routine of circle time, art, story, singing and outdoor play. Cooking, gardening and other simple activities are incorporated seasonally. Children experience being part of a group and are helped to communicate their feelings and needs effectively.

Preschool children at BCS may attend 2-5 mornings or afternoons per week. There is also an extended day program which preschoolers may attend. Class size is small, and parents are encouraged to participate as time permits.

Preschool teachers: Holly Woll-Salkeld,
Laura Smith

Pre-K, Kindergarten and Early Elementary

This class emphasizes hands-on, experiential education with exposure to reading, writing, math and science. Within the daily structure, children engage with these subjects according to their needs, interests and level of skill development.

Kindergarten students at BCS may attend alternating days, mornings, afternoons, or full time (9am-3pm daily). Pre-K children are usually about four and a half years old in September. They typically have some interest in reading, writing and math, or have had several years of preschool and are just ready to move on. Children who turn five in the fall also are identified as pre-kindergartners, and are placed in the multi-age classroom with four-and-a-half year olds to seven year olds.

There is a daily pick-up and drop-off at Happy Valley Elementary school for part-time kindergarteners.

Kindergarten/early elementary class teacher: Heidi Alford

Upper Elementary and Middle School

Upper elementary and middle school students are placed in multi-age classrooms with an age range of about three years. Mornings are structured with reading, writing, and math. Spanish is taught three days a week. Monday and Friday afternoons students are offered a choice of classes, led by teachers, parents and students.

As they mature, children become more in charge of their own learning, choosing their own projects and participating in curriculum planning for incorporation of personal interests. Middle school students, in particular, appreciate the cooperative environment and lack of peer pressure at BCS.

Intermediate class teacher: Lissa Stanton
Middle School teacher: Jesse Stanton