Our Approach: Learning That Grows With Your Child
At The Village Schoolhouse, we believe that learning is most powerful when it is rooted in curiosity, collaboration, and real-world experiences. Our approach is inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, which recognizes children as capable, curious, and full of potential—no matter their age.
Rather than following a rigid, one-size-fits-all curriculum, we foster an engaging, student-led learning environment that adapts to the needs of each child, from early learners to upper elementary students.
A Learning Experience That Evolves
For Our Youngest Learners (JK-Grade 3)
In the early years, children learn best through play, exploration, and hands-on discovery. Our classrooms are designed to encourage creativity, problem-solving, and social-emotional growth. Through open-ended materials, nature-based experiences, and project-based learning, students develop foundational skills in a joyful and engaging way.
For Older Students (Grades 4-6)
As students grow, so do their learning opportunities. Our multi-age classrooms foster independence, leadership, and deeper critical thinking. Older students take part in inquiry-driven projects, research-based learning, and collaborative problem-solving, allowing them to build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of responsibility.
From exploring environmental science in outdoor spaces to designing real-world solutions in our atelier, students engage in meaningful work that connects learning to their lives, their communities, and the world beyond the classroom.
Why the Reggio Emilia Philosophy?
The Reggio Emilia approach recognizes that children are natural learners, and our role as educators is to support and guide their journey. Key elements of our philosophy include:
Inquiry-Based Learning: Students ask questions, explore ideas, and take ownership of their education.
Multi-Age Classrooms: Older students mentor younger ones, while younger students benefit from peer modeling.
Project-Based Work: Learning is integrated across subjects, making it more meaningful and applicable to real life.
Community Involvement: Parents, educators, and students all play an active role in shaping the learning experience.
Let’s get outside!
The Village Schoolhouse students are exposed to the natural world. Never has it been more important to get our children outdoors, in the space and fresh air nature can offer. Time outdoors fosters the genuine curiosity that makes learning meaningful. The Mill Run Trail, serves as laboratory for making observations, asking questions, and planning experiments. The larger communal space available for outdoor play allow children to make cross-age connections and provide more opportunities for social interaction.
Experience Our Approach Firsthand
The best way to understand our unique learning environment is to see it in action! Book a tour today to explore our classrooms, meet our educators, and discover if The Village Schoolhouse is the right fit for your child.
