by Lauren Vangieri
I am often asked who goes to the Concept School and what do you do there? Our students have average and above intelligence and learn in a variety of ways — something you can’t see or pick up in a conversation. If you were trying to distinguish our student body from students in a local middle or upper school — you wouldn’t be able to.
For many of our incoming students, not fitting the mold socially has exposed them to bullying by their peers. Students who have been chronically victimized by bullying often have a hard time learning or even going to school. They find a safe haven at TCS. One of the most rewarding aspects of being part of TCS is watching the transformation of new students as the effects of being bullied melt away and the spark to learn is rekindled.
A learning profile is created for all students at TCS. It documents their learning style and serves as a tool for staff and student. At first, only teachers have access to this living document, available securely on our staff computer network. Seniors are provided with a copy so that they understand their profile and needs to use as they move into post secondary opportunities. Through coaching, students come to understand what they need to do to be successful — gaining confidence and independence. It is the first and most telling engagement between TCS and a new student.
The first step of building a learning profile is observing the student. I don’t mean, sitting in the back of the classroom with a clipboard. I mean, caring staff getting to know each student as an individual. As part of building a profile, we build a relationship. The student becomes part of a close-knit community of students, staff and parents, all working together to guide each child in finding self esteem, individual talents, and the most effective learning style to achieve the goal of college and a successful career.
TCS’s commitment to low teacher/student ratios and a small school environment makes the difference. Our size works to our advantage. We have the time to know every child and the closeness to see what’s really going on. The small class size increases interaction — boosting not only academic achievement but social development as well.
Small makes a big difference at TCS. A small school environment gives us flexibility. You see it in action everyday. Teachers and staff can go the extra step to make sure students are engaged and learning. Lesson plans can be adapted to meet the needs of the class. Frequent field trips provide hands-on learning and a chance to build social skills. We have the time to envelop a student with support: learning profiles, accommodations to academic level, curriculum, independent study, incorporating technology into the learning process, student/staff relations, daily social skills integration, problem solving and self advocacy, peer leadership and mentoring.
Who goes to the Concept School? A great bunch of kids — learning and happy to be going to school.
Lauren Vangieri is the Director of Education and a teacher at the Concept School. If you would like to learn more about what TCS, visit us at www.conceptschool.com, attend an Open House or call 610-399-1135 and schedule a private tour.
