At the Burnham Wood Charter Schools, we are inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, a philosophy that emphasizes open-ended, play-based learning and the natural curiosity of children. In our program, every child is seen as a capable, competent learner and an active participant in their own education.
Our classrooms are vibrant spaces where students are encouraged to explore, question, and discover. Through engaging projects, children are given the freedom to pursue their interests and develop critical thinking skills. We view our students as young scientists, constantly experimenting and learning about the world around them.
Linguistic and Culturally Inclusive Practices
We believe in fostering an inclusive environment that respects and celebrates the linguistic and cultural diversity of our students and their families. Our curriculum incorporates multilingual resources and culturally relevant materials, ensuring that every child feels seen and valued. Teachers use a variety of instructional strategies to support bilingualism and multilingualism, creating a rich, inclusive educational experience.
Join us on a journey where imagination and inquiry lead the way, and every child’s unique potential is nurtured and celebrated.
Professional Development
Our early childhood education staff and teachers meet once a week to train and discuss our program, ensuring we continually learn and improve. By adopting the Reggio Emilia approach, we strive to offer the best possible education to our young students, focusing on their interests and natural curiosity.Planning
Teachers have scheduled planning time to carefully craft their lessons, yet they remain flexible and ready to embrace the surprises each day brings. The curiosity of our little students often leads to deeper exploration, and we encourage teachers to use their creativity to facilitate discovery and learning.Family Engagement
Family engagement is extremely important to us, as we recognize its critical role in fostering a thriving educational environment. Our Reggio Emilia approach emphasizes the involvement of parents and the community, making it a priority to integrate their support in meaningful ways. Through regular workshops, classroom volunteer opportunities, and community events, we actively involve parents in their children’s learning experiences. For instance, parents can participate in project-based activities, share their expertise during career days, and contribute to collaborative art and science projects. Additionally, we host open houses and showcase events where families can celebrate the achievements of our teachers and students. By maintaining open lines of communication and encouraging active participation, we create a supportive network that enhances the educational journey of every student.Transition Activities
We recognize the importance of smooth transitions from child care to LEA (Local Education Agency) events and practices. To support this, we offer a range of transition activities designed to prepare children and their families for the next stage in their educational journey. These activities include:- Orientation Sessions: Introducing families to the new learning environment and expectations.
- Meet and Greets: Opportunities for children and parents to meet their new teachers and classmates.
- Transition Workshops: Providing parents with strategies to support their child during this important period.
- Buddy Programs: Pairing incoming students with older peers who can guide them through their new school experience.
- Family Nights: Events that bring together families from both the child care and LEA communities to foster a sense of belonging and continuity.