Alternative Education Information

Alternative Education at Salmon Bay falls most closely in the “progressive” schools philosophy, but also reflects otheralternative school movements and thinking as well.
Each year our community holds an alternative school orientation meeting to explain more fully the ideas used in our every-day practice at school. Occasionaly we also hold other meetings to explore the role of alternative schools in the public school system.

Progressive Schools

John Dewey
Student interest
Self motivation
Self direction
Theme based projects
Teacher as guide
Student input on rules
Development of critical mind
Arts/Crafts/Music/Drama
No letter / number grades

Holistic Schools

Students as individuals
Experiential learning
Develop all dimensions of human being-physical, artistic, emotional, intellectual, spiritual
Teacher is co-learner
Global citizenship
Earth literacy
Interconnectedness

Multiple Intelligences

Math – logical
Musical
Spatial
Linguistic
Bodily-Kinesthetic
Intrapersonal
Interpersonal

Essential Schools
Small schools
Small classes
Team/family groups
Teacher is facilitator, student is active self-directed learner
Teachers have autonomy and responsibility
Multi age grouping & heterogeneous
Long term integrated projects
Portfolio assessment
Decision making power lies within school
Interacting with community
Lengthened school year

Alternative School Indicators
Alternative School Policy School Board