To achieve our Sussex mission, we employ the following components of a progressive social curriculum:
1. Students enjoy a safe learning environment in which relationships are characterized by integrity and a respect for others. At Sussex,
- formal and informal instruction in living, working, and playing with others is a common thread throughout the school;
- children are expected to be inclusive, caring, and kind in their work and play; and,
- meeting the social and emotional needs of children is always a priority, and may at times warrant a break in academic instruction.
2. Students are active partners with teachers, peers, and parents in their intellectual, social, emotional, and physical development. Therefore,
- Children are given opportunities for self-directed learning and self-assessment, and are encouraged to provide their own input into the curriculum;
- Informal communication is frequent among students, parents, and teachers; and,
- Scheduled Parent/Teacher/Student conferences give an opportunity to reflect on the student’s development.
3. Students work collaboratively using a variety of resources within an experiential curriculum.
4. Teachers tailor the curriculum to accommodate various learning styles, developmental stages, and intellectual interests.
5. The arts, sciences, and humanities are equally valued in the curriculum. Students must meet comparable standards for participation and performance in all areas.
6.Students play a significant role in a wide spectrum of decision-making, ranging from classroom matters to school policy. In keeping with this principle,
- Students are given instruction and provided with opportunities to become effective participants and leaders;
- Children play a central role in planning activities and evaluating their school and teachers;
- Students elect student representatives to the Board; and,
- Children attend regular student meetings, and are welcome at community and board meetings.
7. Each student’s experience is enriched through multi-grade interaction.
8. Children are encouraged to respect and appreciate human diversity both in the classroom and in the world. To foster these ideals,
- We study and celebrate the differences within our community and in the larger world around us; and,
- We invite children, teachers, and parents to talk about their family traditions.
9. Children are encouraged to respect and appreciate the natural world. In order to cultivate this appreciation,
- Environmental education is frequently integrated into the curriculum; and
- Instruction in outdoor recreation is both promoted and valued. Through nine years of a Sussex education students have the opportunity to learn and increase outdoor skills in skiing and snowboarding, ice skating, swimming, hiking and navigation, rock climbing, and kayaking.
To achieve our mission, we believe that the following components regarding our school community are vital:
1. Parents and students value and support the teachers and administrators.
2. The school is a parent cooperative. In other words,
- Stakeholders have opportunities to participate in numerous aspects of school life.
3. Financial aid is available to support economic diversity.
4. Community service is valued and extends beyond the school to the broader Missoula area. To promote the value of service, each learning group has a designated annual service project where they can build monthly relationships with a given local organization.
- Children are given opportunities to work for the benefit of others; and,
- Children are encouraged to take action in response to concerns, and learn firsthand that they have the ability to make a difference.
5. The community honors the spirit of childhood. Therefore,
- A healthy balance between work and play is encouraged and modeled; and,
- We recognize and celebrate the unique qualities of each child.