We believe that students:
- should have equal access to education
- should have a positive relationship with their teachers
- are individuals who learn at different rates and in different styles
- need an environment that ensures self-worth and enhances self- esteem and success
- can learn
- want to learn
- must be open to teaching
- need to become independent learners
- should aim to do their best
- should be challenged in all areas of learning
- should come to school prepared to learn eg., fed, rested and with proper supplies
- need to develop communication skills
- need to develop effective work habits
- should be respected as individuals and need to feel important
- are the focus of schools
- need guidance and assistance
- should respect their teachers, each other, themselves, their school and its rules.
- learn best when parents and teachers work together
- have talents to contribute
- are harmed by exposure to violence.
We believe that effective teaching:
- should be a respected process involving team effort involving parents/guardians, teachers, administrators, students and the community
- should utilize various methods and settings to meet individual needs
- requires dedication to and concern for others
- requires training and ongoing professional development
- requires patience and understanding
- should be a happy, rewarding and challenging experience.
- aims to develop each pupil to his/her fullest potential
- takes into consideration the home environment of the child
- requires many skills and a willingness to take risks
- facilitates learning
- is a learning experience
- should be focused on the curriculum
- is enhanced when children are motivated to learn.
We believe that school(s):
- should be places where people feel safe, happy and valued
- must strive to meet the needs of all students
- should strive to expand student's horizons
- should provide a healthy, positive environment conducive to learning
- should be provided with resources both human and otherwise to meet the needs of students
- should be structured, yet adaptable and flexible
- should model accepted social values and behavior
- should involve teamwork
- is a place where ideas are exchanged
- facilitate and organize learning
- should recognize all achievement.
We believe that learning:
- occurs at different rates and in different ways for different children
- can be spontaneous in and out of school
- should be encouraged
- is necessary in order for individuals to grow socially, intellectually and morally
- is a cumulative, life-long process
- occurs best through active involvement of students
- is enhanced when people are interested
- is enhanced by recognition of achievement
- should be a positive experience
- occurs best in a supportive environment
- is affected by family attitudes
- is affected by self-esteem
- requires self-discipline.