The following core beliefs drive our goal setting and guide our decisions. We review them regularly and

revise them when necessary.

We believe in learning-centered communities, in which all members are known, respected and valued,

and in which differences are honored and student voice is heard. We celebrate the successes of all

learners.

We believe students thrive when they experience relationships with peers, staff and families that gener-

ate honest, respectful and trusting communication.

We believe students learn by actively engaging in relevant, authentic and fl exible project based instruc-

tion. Content for learning is immediately applicable and balanced with refl ection. Teachers guide learn-

ing in a technology-rich environment which emphasizes 21st century skills.

We believe school community members who practice critical thinking and socially engaged intelligence

are using their minds well.

We believe community partnerships provide learners with a sense of responsibility, inspiring them to

become immersed in the community.

We believe learners prioritize, plan and manage their work. Growth and achievement are assessed from

many perspectives including performance of real tasks, self and peer critique, projects and portfolios.

We believe procedural, curricular, cultural and fi scal decisions refl ect the core beliefs and the voice of

the people directly affected by the decisions. All educators are committed to the decision-making process

and model participation in a democratic society.