Why K-6?
At The Learning Project, we believe in the opportunity and impact of a K-6 model.
Through a program focused solely on supporting children ages 5-12, students are surrounded by teachers and administrators who understand and are devoted to the unique ways in which they learn and grow during these foundational years.
Throughout their elementary school journey, they are supported in an intentional way that helps to not only nurture their academic development, but also their independence and sense of self. As children move toward adolescence and wrestle with all that comes with this, we believe:
In the power of sixth graders remaining in the elementary school environment, allowing them to still be ‘kids’ for another year;
In an environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities, with scaffolding that fosters social grace; where peer pressure to blindly conform is minimized;
Where it is okay to be part of both worlds—childhood and adolescence; and where they learn the value and skills of leadership as role models within a community.
In this way, Learning Project students acquire the social-emotional capacity to thrive in middle school and beyond.
The following is taken directly from our Parent Handbook:
There are several key philosophical underpinnings to this school that account for its thoughtful, child-centered approach to education. One is our commitment to being a traditional elementary school. In the case of school structure, we believe that the traditional elementary school model, culminating with sixth grade, is by far the best possible grouping for young children.
Certainly, on the social and emotional side of the development equation, there are many good reasons to keep children in settings that know children well, and know the developmental path that they have followed, and will follow in the future. And, from the young child’s standpoint, there is immense emotional comfort and security in being in a familiar place with familiar faces, surrounded by friends and classmates, and teachers who have known them over the years. It is a level of comfort that allows them to be themselves, and to grow from that singular starting point.
By the end of sixth grade, the transformation of students is stunning. During that final year, they will have significantly matured both socially and emotionally. They will have acquired a semblance of ‘polish;’ they will have learned how to advocate for themselves; to stand up to peers and to stand up for what they believe. Emotionally, they will have learned they can manage major change; that they can say “Goodbye,” and be excited about the future. They will have experienced how change can strengthen them, not defeat them. And by the time June arrives, along with their excitement about their next adventure, they will be brimming with self-confidence and optimism.
This is the process that is embedded in the fabric of the traditional elementary school model—and in the process that unfolds in the culmination of sixth grade at this school.
Where do students go after The LP? See our FAQ's page or click here for our matriculation list.