ONE
CAD
Summer
Cougar Sports Camp
Cushman Virtual
The Classroom as a Mosaic
La Scuola is a progressive forest school that believes in nurturing children's innate creativity and sense of wonder through immersive experiences in nature. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, La Scuola's unique blend of environmental education and innovative learning allows children to experience life while discovering a deep appreciation for the natural world.
6 LA SCUOLA
We Learn Everywhere
10 MEET LEO
The Roig Academy's Therapy Dog
14 ART TO THE CORE
Art integration in Core Studies
23 FEATURED
Elizabeth Rivas
36
How Independent Summer Projects Lead to Self-Discovery
As we celebrate our 15th year in print, we are grateful for your support and trust in our magazine as a resource during your school search journey. Your commitment to providing your child with the best educational experience continues to inspire and deeply touch us.
In this issue, we are proud to feature articles focusing on embracing the arts and creativity as an integral part of education, preparing empathetic students, and supporting self-directed learning.
We continue to acknowledge the commitment private schools make to provide an enriching and comprehensive education. We are grateful for the opportunity to join you in this important journey of finding the right school for your child.
PALMETTO
Toddler
RED
LUDLAM
Elementary,
La Scuola is a progressive forest school that welcomes children from 12 months – 8th grade. Tucked within 3 acres of lush and sprawling forest, our campus is surrounded by mature trees, an abundance of wildlife, and beautiful edible landscapes. The nature that surrounds our school is at the heart of our philosophy. It is our belief that the exploration of the natural world is the richest source of learning.
La Scuola applies an inquiry-based approach to education that fosters creativity, promotes academic excellence, emotional intelligence, and inspires a passion for learning and research. We strive to experience the beauty and wisdom of nature throughout each and every school day. From daily nature walks and outdoor yoga sessions to Math in the garden and nature photography, we embrace the outdoors as a rich learning environment.
Priority is always given to outdoor learning because this is the environment in which children feel most inspired and make many meaningful connections about the world around them. Fortunately, our campus is filled with life. From the variety of living things found in our ecosystem to the majestic relationships taking place between the plants and animals surrounding us, the nature enveloping our school is extraordinary.
As a forest school, we aim to explore the outdoors as much as possible so that we can use our lush campus grounds as a teaching tool for our students. What lessons can we learn from the nature that surrounds us? What connections are our students making about the natural world while they are exploring? This is what we strive to discover through our experiences with the children.
When we, as educators and facilitators, experience nature with our students, we get the opportunity to understand how our students are making meaning of the world around them. To prompt them with a question, to listen to their theories, and to observe as they endeavor to find answers, is at the heart of our program.
La Scuola’s educational program balances traditional academics with innovative research projects in an environment inspired by nature and the principles of the Reggio Emilia Approach. You won’t find our students spending most of their time behind desks or reading textbooks; they are actively engaged in learning in a hands-on way both inside and outside the classroom. At La Scuola each child becomes a thinker who listens, an inquirer who negotiates, an inventor who collaborates, and an individual who believes in him or herself. Rather than passively absorbing information, our students explore their world and actively master academic skills, while developing self-confidence and the ability to collaborate effectively with others. Their learning is meaningful, relevant, real, and exciting!
La Scuola offers a more complete, balanced, and exuberant approach to education that provides our students the opportunity to experience that at the heart of learning, is the joy of discovery.
Camp Gulliver provides unique o erings for every grade level and interest–all in one place! STEAM, Swim Lessons, Athletics, Broadway, Broadcasting, and more!
If you step into the halls at Roig Academy, you'll find Leo, a standard poodle, right in the heart of all the action. Leo is more than just a furry friend, he is a trained therapy dog that has become an integral part of daily life at Roig. His presence is seamlessly integrated into many aspects of the school's routines and activities. From participating in classroom visits to lending a "paw" of emotional support during designated sessions, Leo's presence provides a sense of security and comfort, helping to improve students' attitudes about learning while reducing anxiety. His fluffy ears perk up as he listens intently to students reading aloud, and with an enthusiastic wag of his tail, he can bring about positive emotional responses— all of which contribute to the supportive environment Roig is dedicated to fostering. Leo has many important jobs on campus. He loves to
Roig students. Leo is lovingly cared for by the heads of the school, Mr. Gus and Mrs. Jenni Roig, who, along with this gentle giant, have undergone rigorous training. While on campus, Leo is always under the supervision of a designated person to ensure everyone's safety–including his.
Amidst the bustling school life at Roig, you'll find Leo, spreading laughter and positivity wherever he goes. We did a Q&A with the Head of School, Jenni Roig, to learn more about the loveable poodle with the infectious energy and warmth that make him an indispensable part of their school community.
QHow did Leo get his name?
Mr. Gus and Mrs. Jenni Roig came up with the name because they liked the ring it had to it. Coincidentally Leo means “to read” in spanish which a parent brought to our attention saying, “The Roig thinks of EVERYTHING even naming the dog Leo in a school where so many children attend to improve their reading skills. "
QWhat inspired the decision to introduce a therapy dog at Roig?
The decision to bring a therapy dog to the Roig Academy was inspired by a desire to enhance faculty and student well-being, create a supportive environment, and provide additional emotional support resources to help meet the needs of the entire school both faculty and students.
QHow did using a therapy dog align with Roig’s mission and values?
Every approach in our school is supported by research, and Leo is no exception. A recent study found that Interactions with dogs could decrease stress and induce positive emotional responses. This study also found that humans felt comfortable and natural while walking with a dog and relaxed when petting one.
QHow has Leo fostered community and connection at Roig?
Leo has strengthened our sense of community and connection among students and staff by providing a shared source of comfort and joy, facilitating positive interactions, and fostering a supportive environment where relationships can flourish within our school. Our parents also enjoy having Leo present in meetings.
QHow has Leo contributed to creating a supportive academic environment?
Students love to read out loud and deliver class presentations to Leo. He makes a remarkable reading buddy, assisting students in developing their literacy skills and promoting a love for learning through interactive reading sessions. Students feel more comfortable reading aloud and are more open to taking risks when Leo is nearby. Many of our students shied away from reading aloud at their previous schools, but they know Leo will not judge their reading skills and is always eager to listen. Students also enjoy completing class assignments alongside Leo, whether they are working independently or on group assignments , his presence always provides a boost of encouragement.
QTell us about a time Leo had a direct impact on student's life?
I remember a particular day when a middle school student was having a tough time and needed a break. Playing catch on the field with Leo made a significant difference. Just taking a 10-minute break with Leo helped him relax, refocus, and get back to the task at hand.
QAre there particular training or certification prerequisites for bringing a therapy dog onto campus?
Yes, Mr. Gus and Mrs. Jenni Roig are trained handlers and Leo has gone through rigourous training to ensure his adaptability to various environments, such as schools, libraries, and hospitals. In addition to working with Leo, students have learned how to approach, pet, and interact with him appropriately. They enjoy asking him to perform tricks for them such as “paw shake” or seeing him follow a command such as sitting.
“Everything at Roig is done with purpose, and Leo is no exception. Leo makes everyone smile, and brings a great calming energy to the school. My son adores him and so do I!"
- Roig Parent
Fun Facts about Leo: Leo, a standard poodle, is bilingual and understands commands in both English and Spanish. He can open office doors and will invite himself to parent-teacher conferences.
learn more about the Roig Academy's global curriculum and specialized approach, please visit www.roigacademy.com
n the dynamic landscape of education, a significant shift is taking place, challenging traditional views on art as just extracurricular pastimes. Art education is no longer confined to its historical boundaries as peripheral or elective. The integration of art in core subjects is taking the spotlight as a groundbreaking approach—merging the power of art with traditional academic studies. In today's educational framework, art integration offers unique benefits to students, enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, emotional intelligence, and cultural understanding and appreciation. The importance of art education lies in helping a child to develop into a well-rounded individual. Research shows that students who participate in art education consistently perform better academically. Here we look at how art integration in education has evolved, shifting from its conventional role to a more prominent position in the curriculum.
Art integration in education has numerous benefits that go beyond simply adding a touch of creativity to the classroom. Art promotes a deeper understanding by allowing students to explore concepts through creative mediums. It also enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills. When students engage in hands-on art activities, such as designing and building models or creating visual representations of scientific concepts, they are encouraged to think creatively and find innovative solutions. This creates a better understanding of material and promotes a more holistic approach to problem-solving.
Additionally, art integration in core subjects promotes communication and collaboration skills. Through collaborative art projects, students learn to effectively communicate their ideas, listen to others, and work together towards a common goal. These skills are vital in real-world scenarios where interdisciplinary collaboration is essential for success.
Art integration in core studies refers to the practice of incorporating artistic elements and processes into math, science, language arts, and social studies. It involves connecting the principles of art, such as aesthetics, design, and expression, with the concepts and practices of these subjects. By combining these seemingly unrelated disciplines, art integration in core studies provides students with a more comprehensive and engaging learning ex-
Lastly, art integration fosters adaptability skills. When students are exposed to diverse art forms and techniques, they learn to embrace different perspectives and adapt their thinking. This adaptability is crucial in a dynamic world where the ability to navigate uncertainty and complexity is highly valued.
When we think about how art integration impacts children's learning, start by looking at how art influences the three interrelated pillars that shape a child's development: Cognitive Development, Emotional Intelligence, and Critical Thinking Skills. Art integration has a profound impact on cognitive development. When students engage in artistic activities, they are required to think creatively to solve problems and make decisions. These cognitive processes enhance their analytical and critical thinking skills, allowing them to approach challenges from multiple perspectives. By incorporating art into the curriculum, educators provide students with the opportunity to develop their cognitive abilities in a meaningful way. Art integration also promotes memory retention. When students are engaged in the creative process, they are more likely to remember the information they are learning. This happens because art activates multiple areas of the brain, creating stronger neural connections and improving information retention. By integrating art into the curriculum, educators can enhance students'
ability to remember and apply the knowledge they acquire. Lastly, art integration caters to diverse learning styles. Not all students learn best through traditional methods such as lectures and worksheets. Some students are visual learners, while others are kinesthetic or auditory learners. This approach provides students with alternative ways to learn and express themselves. This ensures that all students have the opportunity to succeed and thrive in the classroom.
The next pillar is emotional intelligence. Emotional Intelligence is a crucial skill that plays a significant role in students' personal and academic success. Art integration provides a unique platform for students to explore and express their emotions. Through artistic expression, students can process and communicate their thoughts and feelings in a non-threatening and creative way. This not only helps them develop a deeper understanding of their own emotions but also fosters empathy and understanding towards others. This approach also provides a safe space for students to take risks and make mistakes.
In traditional academic settings, students are often afraid of failure and may be hesitant to take risks. However, in an art-integrated curriculum, students are encouraged to experiment and explore without the fear of judgment. This allows them to develop resilience, perseverance, and a growth mindset, all of which are essential for success in school and beyond. When students create art, they take pride in their work and develop a sense of accomplishment. This boosts their self-confidence and encourages them to take on new challenges. Ultimately, art has the power to create an environment that nurtures emotional intelligence and personal growth.
Finally, the ability to think critically is an indispensable skill that is crucial for achieving success in the world we live in. An arts-integrated approach provides students with the opportunity to think critically and solve problems creatively. When students engage in artistic activities, they are required to analyze, evaluate, and interpret information. This process of critical thinking not only enhances their understanding of the material but also develops their ability to think independently and make informed decisions. It encourages students to think outside the box and
challenge traditional ways of thinking, creating a unique space to explore alternative perspectives and challenge existing norms. Art integration also develops students' ability to communicate effectively. When students create art, they are required to communicate their ideas and thoughts visually. This enhances their communication skills and teaches them to express complex ideas clearly and concisely. These skills form the basis of an innovative and creative culture.
The inclusion of "A" for Arts in STEAM highlights the vital role of the arts in fostering creativity, innovation, and holistic learning. The main difference between art integration in core studies and art integration in STEM lies in the focus on the subjects.
When we talk about art integration in core studies, we usually focus on how using artistic methods helps students better understand and interpret the main subjects they're learning about. For example, students might create visual representations or perform artistic interpretations of historical events or literary themes. Continued page 20
CEA provides a dynamic, intimate and nurturing environment that helps students grow into confident human beings with curious minds, healthy bodies, and strong civic, spiritual, and cultural values. Through its demanding academic program, Conservatory of the Arts, athletic division, and mastery program, students are challenged and inspired to grow as passionate thinkers and doers who make an impact on their communities. Each child is seen and respected as an individual, keeping the spirit of love and respect that is the trademark of CEA and The Espinosa Method™.
With STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), art integration is all about using artistic ideas and methods to make learning more interesting and engaging within STEM studies. For example, students might explore integrating music into mathematics by studying the mathematical principles of rhythm, pitch, and harmony through com
Parents are essential partners in their children's learning journey, playing a vital role in integrating art into education. They have the power to make a significant impact on their child's development by fostering creativity at home, participating in art-related events, and showing enthusiasm for various forms of artistic expression. By instilling a positive attitude towards the arts, parents reinforce classroom teachings and cultivate a deep appreciation for creativity in their children. Additionally, parents can actively advocate for continued investment in arts programs in schools, ensuring that educational environments embrace both knowledge and creativity. Through these efforts, parents become key influencers in shaping a future generation that excels not only academically but also creatively, equipping them with the skills to confidently tackle the challenges of the modern
"The future belongs to young people with an education and the imagination to create."
Creative education is not just about nurturing future artists; it's about empowering all students to think creatively, critically, and compassionately. The value of arts in the curriculum today cannot be underestimated. It is a refreshing alternative to standardized testing and rigid academic structures that celebrate individuality and diversity. As we look to the future, we continue to recognize that this approach has the power to transform the learning experience for all students through inclusive learning environments where students of all backgrounds and abilities feel valued and empowered to express themselves au-
By recognizing the intrinsic worth of the arts and prioritizing their inclusion in education, we can cultivate a generation of learners who are prepared to navigate the complexities of the modern world with confidence, resilience, innovation, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of human expression.
PRESCHOOL – GRADE 12
Empowering Learners. Inspiring Lives. Preparing Hearts.
Westminster students are bright and inquisitive, engaged with their communities, and growing in their faith.
Learn how a Westminster education will inspire your child’s future.
To learn more, visit: www.wcsmiami.org
Admission: 305-233-4027 • admission@wcsmiami.org
w
Palmetto Bay Campus
Preschool 18 mos. - 6 years 17800 Old Cutler Road
Miami FL 33157 (305) 969-1814
Old Cutler Road Campus
Preschool 2 - 6 years 14400 Old Cutler Road Miami FL 33158 (305) 233-4540
Ludlam Road Campus
Elementary 6 - 12 years 14850 SW 67th Avenue
Miami FL 33158 (305) 235-3995
Red Road Campus
Preschool 3 - 6 years
6050 SW 57th Avenue
Miami FL 33143 (305) 665-6274
www.alexandermontessori.com
12975
www.conchitaespinosa.com
Marian C. Krutulis Campus
PK - 8th Grade
12595 Red Road
Coral Gables, FL 33156 (305) 665-3593
Upper School Campus
9th - 12th Grade
6575 North Kendall Drive
Pinecrest, FL 33156 (305) 666-7937
Upper School Miller Campus
9th - 12th Grade
8000 SW 56 Street Miami, FL 33155 (305) 274-9535
www.gulliverprep.org
PK2 -
592 NE 60th Street
Miami, FL 33137 (305) 757-1966
www.cushmanschool.org
INDEPENDENT COLLEGE PREP
HIGHPOINT ACADEMY
PK2 - 8th Grade
Main Campus
12101 SW 34th Street
Miami, FL 33175 (305) 552-0202
Coral Way Campus 9850 SW 24th Street Miami, FL 33165 (305) 552-0208
www.highpointacademy.com
BILINGUAL PRIVATE SCHOOL
KLA ACADEMY
3 Months - 5th Grade
375 SW 15th Road
Miami, FL 33129
377-0391
klaacademy.org
KLA SCHOOLS
KLA Schools of Aventura
12 Months - 5 years
20301 Biscayne Blvd. Aventura, FL 33180 (305) 931-2322
KLA Schools of Coral Gables
3 Months - 5 years
4573 Ponce De Leon Blvd.
Coral Gables, FL 33146 (305) 668-0552
KLA Schools of Doral
12 Months - 5 years (offers VPK)
10400 NW 33rd Street #100 Miami, FL 33172
KLA Schools of North Bay Village
3 Months - 5 years 7800 Hispanola Avenue
North Bay Village, FL 33141 (305) 865-2678
KLA Schools of North Miami Beach
3 Months - 5 years (Offers VPK) 13702 Biscayne Blvd. North Miami Beach, FL 33181
KLA Schools of Palmetto Bay
3 Months - 5 years
14875 S. Dixie Highway, Unit B Miami, FL 33176 (305) 233-0130
KLA Schools of West Kendall
3 Months - 5 years (Offers VPK & SR) 8950 SW 137th Avenue Miami, FL 33186 (305) 387-2480
www.klaschools.com
LA PIAZZA ACADEMY
Preschool - 5th Grade
3100 South Dixie Highway Miami, FL 33133 (305) 443-0066
www.lapiazzaacademy.com
MIAMI COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
PK - 12th Grade
601 NE 107th Street Miami, FL 33161 (305) 779-7230
www.miamicountryday.org
INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL
LA SCUOLA
3 Months - 8th Grade
7412 Sunset Drive Miami, FL 33143 (305) 278-9555
www.lascuola.com
PROGRESSIVE FOREST SCHOOL
PALMETTO BAY ACADEMY
1st - 12th Grade
16637 S Dixie Highway
Miami, FL 33157 (786) 293-5353
www.palmettobayacademy.com
ALTERNATIVE PRIVATE SCHOOL
RANSOM EVERGLADES SCHOOL
Middle School Campus
6th - 8th Grade
2045 South Bayshore Drive
Coconut Grove, FL 33133 (305) 250-6850
Upper School Campus
9th - 12th Grade
3575 Main Highway
Coconut Grove, FL 33133 (305) 460-8800
www.ransomeverglades.org
RIVIERA SCHOOLS
Riviera Day School PK - 5th Grade
6800 Nervia Street
Coral Gables, FL 33146 (305) 666-1856
Riviera Preparatory School 6th - 12th Grade
9775 SW 87th Avenue Miami, FL 33176 (786) 300-0300
www.rivieraschools.com
DAY SCHOOL AND COLLEGE PREP
THE ROIG ACADEMY K - 8th Grade
8000 SW 112 Street Miami, FL 33156 (305) 235-1313
www.roigacademy.com
IB DAY SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS W/DYSLEXIA
SUNSET MONTESSORI SCHOOL PK, K - 1st Grade
7430 Sunset Drive Miami, FL 33143 (305) 666-2008
www.sunsetmontessorischool.com
MONTESSORI SCHOOL
REGGIO EMILIA INSPIRED PRIVATE SCHOOL REGGIO EMILIA PROGRESSIVE SCHOOL
BELEN JESUIT PREPARATORY
All-boys 6th - 12th Grade
500 SW 127th Avenue Miami, FL 33184 (305) 223-8600
www.belenjesuit.org
CATHOLIC COLLEGE PREPARATORY
CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS HIGH SCHOOL
All-boys 9th - 12th Grade
30000 SW 87th Ave Miami, FL 33165 (305) 223-5650 x2256
www.columbushs .com
ROMAN CATHOLIC COLLEGE PREP
IMMACULATA-LA SALLE HIGH SCHOOL 9th - 12th Grade
3601 South Miami Avenue Miami, FL 33133 (305) 854-2334
www.ilsroyals.com
CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
MIAMI CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PK - 12th Grade
200 NW 109 Avenue Miami, FL 33172 (305) 221-7754
www.miamichristian.org
CHRISTIAN PRIVATE SCHOOL
PALMER TRINITY SCHOOL 6th - 12th Grade
7900 SW 176th Street Miami, FL 33157 (305) 251-2230
www.palmertrinity.org
EPISCOPAL COLLEGE PREP
OUR LADY OF LOURDES ACADEMY All-girls 9th - 12th Grade
5525 SW 84 Street Miami, FL 33143 (305) 667-1623
www.olla.org
CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
ST. BRENDAN HIGH SCHOOL 9th - 12th Grade
2950 SW 87th Ave Miami, FL 33165 (305) 223-5181
www.stbrendanhigh.org
CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
ST. PHILIP'S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL PK3 - 5th Grade
1121 Andalusia Avenue
Coral Gables, FL 33134 (305) 444-6366
www.saintphilips.org
SCHECK HILLEL COMMUNITY SCHOOL 18 Months - 12th Grade
19000 NE 25th Ave
North Miami Beach, FL 33180 (305) 931-2831
eHillel.org
JEWISH COLLEGE PREP
WESTMINSTER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PreK 3 - 12th Grade
6855 SW 152 Street Palmetto Bay, FL 33157 (305) 233-2030
www.wcsmiami.org
CHRISTIAN PRIVATE SCHOOL
SPECIAL EDUCATION
ATLANTIS ACADEMY MIAMI K - 12th Grade
9600 SW 107th Avenue Miami, FL 33176 (305) 271-9771
www.AtlantisAcademy.com
SPECIAL EDUCATION
MIAMI LEARNING EXPERIENCE SCHOOL K - 12th & Adult Continuing Education
5651 SW 82nd Ave Road Miami Fl 33143 (305) 275-5900
www.mleschool.org
1. KLA Schools
2. NSU University School w
3. Pine Crest School
4. Summit Questa Montessori School w
5. Beth Emet School
6. Hochberg Lower School w
7. Paideia Classical Academy
8. Posnack School w
9. St. Thomas Aquinas High School
10. Westminster Academy w
11. Atlantis Academy Coral Springs
12. Center Academy Prep
w Indicates a school that offers support for students with minor learning difficulties/differences not disabilities.
KLA SCHOOLS
KLA Schools of Pembroke Pines 8 weeks - Kindergarten (Offers VPK)
18055 NW 8th Street Pembroke Pines, FL 33029 (954) 469-9905
KLA Schools of Fort Lauderdale 3 Months - 5 years
2857 E. Oakland Park Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306 (954) 530-1960
KLA Schools of Coconut Creek 3 Months - 5 years (Offers VPK)
6310 N State Road 7 Coconut Creek, FL 331073 (954) 571-8019
www.klaschools.com
REGGIO EMILIA INSPIRED PRIVATE SCHOOL
NSU UNIVERSITY SCHOOL
Preschool (starting at 18 months) – 12th
3375 SW 75 Ave Davie, FL 33314 (954) 262-4506
www.uschool.nova.edu
INDEPENDENT COLLEGE PREP
PINE CREST SCHOOL
PK4 – 12th Grade
1501 NE 62nd Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334 (954) 492-4100
www.pinecrest.edu
INDEPENDENT COLLEGE PREP
SUMMIT- QUESTA MONTESSORI SCHOOL Toddler - Middle School
5451 SW 64th Avenue Davie, FL 33314 (954) 584-3466
www.summitquesta.com
MONTESSORI SCHOOL
RELIGIOUS
POSNACK SCHOOL
Junior K - 12th Grade
5810 S. Pine Island Road Davie, FL 33328 (954) 583-6100
www.posnackschool.org
JEWISH DAY SCHOOL
BETH EMET SCHOOL
Kindergarten - 8th Grade
4807 South Flamingo Road Cooper City, FL 33330 (954) 680-1882
www.bethemetschool.org
JEWISH ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL
HOCHBERG LOWER SCHOOL K - 5th Grade
412 SW 11th Street Hallandale Beach, FL 33009 (954) 299-3600
www.posnackschool.org
JEWISH DAY SCHOOL
PAIDEIA CLASSICAL ACADEMY Preschool - 12th Grade
2370 Hammock Blvd.
Coconut Creek, FL 33063 (954) 974-1121
www.paideiaclassical.org
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS HIGH SCHOOL 9th - 12th Grade
2801 SW 12 Street Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 (954) 581-0700
www.aquinas-sta.org
CATHOLIC COLLEGE PREP HIGH SCHOOL
WESTMINSTER ACADEMY PK2 – 12th Grade
5601 North Federal Highway Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308 (954) 771-4600
www.wa.edu
CHRISTIAN COLLEGE PREP
ATLANTIS ACADEMY CORAL SPRINGS K - 12th Grade
11411 NW 56th Drive
Coral Springs, FL 33076 (954) 752-7571
www.AtlantisAcademy.com
THE GREENE SCHOOL
Early Childhood 4 yrs – Grade 10
2001 South Dixie Highway West Palm Beach, FL 33401 (561) 293-2888
www.thegreeneschool.com
INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL
KLA SCHOOLS
KLA Schools of Boynton Beach 3 Months - 5 years (Offers VPK)
1601 N Congress Avenue Boynton Beach, FL 33426 (561) 735-1042
KLA Schools of Lake Worth 6 weeks - 5 years (Offers VPK)
4945 Via Bari Lake Worth, FL 33463 (561) 432-9559
www.klaschools.com
REGGIO EMILIA INSPIRED PRIVATE SCHOOL
PALM BEACH DAY ACADEMY
Lower Campus PK2 - 3rd Grade
1901 South Flagler Drive
West Palm Beach, FL 33401 (561) 832-8815
Upper Campus 4th - 9th Grade
241 Seaview Ave
Palm Beach, FL 33480 (561) 655-1188
www.pbday.org
INDEPENDENT PRIVATE SCHOOL
PINE CREST SCHOOL
PK4 – 8th Grade
2700 St Andrews Blvd Boca Raton, FL 33434 (561) 852-2800
www.pinecrest.edu
INDEPENDENT COLLEGE PREP
RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION
CARDINAL NEWMAN HIGH SCHOOL 9th - 12th Grade
512 Spencer Drive West Palm Beach, FL 33409 (561) 683-6266
www.cardinalnewman.com
CATHOLIC COLLEGE PREP
ARTHUR I. MEYER JEWISH PREPARATORY SCHOOL
Junior K - 8th
5225 Hood Road Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 (561) 686-6520
www.meyerprep.org
INDEPENDENT CATHOLIC SCHOOL (561) 260-5104
www.rosarian.org
SPANISH RIVER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PK3 – 8th Grade
2400 Yamato Road Boca Raton, FL 33431 (561) 994-5006
spanishriverchristianschool.com
PRESBYTERIAN PRIVATE SCHOOL
ST. MARK'S EPISCOPAL SCHOOL PK2 - 8th Grade
3395 Burns Road Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561)622-1504
www.stmarkspbg.org
TRINITY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PK 1 - 8th Grade
9625 N. Military Trail Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410 (561) 253-3950
www.tcspbg.org
CHRISTIAN PRIVATE SCHOOL
ATLANTIS ACADEMY PALM BEACH K - 12th Grade
1950 Prairie Road
West Palm Beach, FL 33406 (561) 642-3100
www.AtlantisAcademy.com
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Map points designate global campuses or physical school communities for in-person connections
1. Dwight Global Online School
2. Cushman Virtual
DWIGHT GLOBAL ONLINE SCHOOL
Coeducational 6th - 12th
Global Network of International Baccalaureate World Schools with Virtual Classrooms and Campuses in New York, London, Shanghai, Seoul, Dubai, and soon Hanoi
(212) 724-2420
www.dwight.global FEATURED
Limited space availble for the 2024–25 school year—apply today!
Westminster Academy has a strong tradition of competitive athletics, awardwinning fine arts, and Christian scholarship—all in a caring community where each student is known and loved. It is within this community that lessons are learned, life is lived, friendships are forged, and worldviews are formed. All of this comes together to create a unique opportunity not found anywhere else in South Florida—the Westminster Academy experience.
10 SCHOLARS
$4,575,667 IN SCHOLARSHIP OFFERS
is a Christ-centered, biblically-based college
18,497 hours of community service
Find out how this fusion of faith and intellect—both gifts from God— create a unique experience that will impact your child for a lifetime. To schedule a tour, or learn more, please visit wa.edu/admissions or call 954.815.0131
52% earned 12 or more college credits
• Graduates are accepted into prestigious universities including: Cornell University, Emory University, Princeton University, New York University, Tulane University, University of Central Florida, University of Florida, Northwestern University, Northeastern University, University of Miami, Vanderbilt University, and Washington University in St. Louis
• Low student-to-teacher ratios
• 95% pass rate on AP Exams
• Posnack School offers a full Judaic Studies curriculum based on study of Torah and classical Jewish sources as well as modern Hebrew instruction.
• Over 24 sports teams
• MakerSpace Innovation and Design Lab
• Middle and high school electives include Digital Photography, 2D/3D Art, Debate, Robotics, Forensic Science, Pre-Med, Pre-Law, Pre-Engineering, Internships, Human Genetics, Scientific Research, Creative Writing, Holocaust Studies and more!
Performing and Visual Arts
2021-2022
• Posnack School Performing and Visual Arts Department has won over 170 awards, including 25 in the district and state drama competitions and 4 CAPPIE nominations
• The most high school photography awards nationally with 80 in our high school and 25 in our middle school. These awards include 15 from drawing and painting.
Ihave a vivid memory of summer vacations. We would pack up the car and set off from London on the long drive down to Naples, along the way, I would constantly ask questions: Why is their money different from ours? Why does the mountain still have snow on it if it is the summer? How do you build a tunnel through the mountains? Are we there yet?
As annoying as I may have been, my parents never quashed my curiosity. Maybe the absence of technology caused them to engage more? Maybe they understood the importance of fostering curiosity and letting my imagination run wild? Maybe they were ahead of the times in pedagogical understanding?
Learning is not linear.
Too often as educators we work within the constraints of content delivery and in some cases, this can be at a cost to intellectual curiosity. So many times, lessons can and do go off on a tangent and although we encourage this, the feeling of needing to “get through” the initial plan takes over, reducing the time for independent thought and exploration in sufficient depth. It is such a shame and one reason so many students become disengaged.
Inspired by Google’s “genius hour,” whereby workers operate on the 80:20 principle (80% of their time is spent on core projects and 20% on innovation projects), there is something to be said for using this philosophy to provide students with a meaningful learning
experience over the summer. A “passion project” can help foster curiosity and depth of learning in any subject area. A passion project should be structured and individualized, exciting yet challenging, provide an opportunity to develop skills, but above all bring classroom rhetoric to reality.
Imagine on the return to school, students demonstrating a website they created, or showing photographs from a beach cleanup they organized or a dress made out of chip packets! A structured process through which students generate an idea, investigate, plan, take action and reflect can and does provide students with a platform for this to happen. The end goal may vary; but with a clear route of inquiry and exposure to key planning tools, students have had a chance to thrive and demonstrate their preferred learning style. We can learn so much about who our students are and what inspires them.
Our economy is transitioning towards one whereby the importance of skills is increasingly evident. We must do our best to provide students with opportunities to develop entrepreneurship, experiment with the design process and be creative, but above all learn in a low stakes environment whereby failure is part of the learning process. Not only does it build character, resilience and helps promote a love for learning, but it is much better than watching reels of social media “influencers” for hours on end. Afterall, anything worth doing involves a little chaos, especially if we can have a positive impact on young minds.
July 2023 and is committed to upholding St. Mark's tradition of excellence in educating the whole child and providing a well-rounded educational experience. He believes in St. Mark's mission to encourage intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual growth.
One thing that all schools with a global mindset share is their mission of preparing students to participate intelligently and contribute positively in the complex and rapidly changing world. In today's interconnected world, schools must adapt to the growing racial, cultural, and linguistic diversity by transforming education to prepare students to navigate both opportunities and challenges, while encouraging cooperation, understanding, and progress on a global scale. As diversity grows, there is a greater need for multicultural education where schools help students develop the 21st-century skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed that go beyond just understandings of ethnicity, race, and faith. By emphasizing cultural competence and multilingualism, schools ensure students can understand and communicate across cultures and languages with empathy and open-mindedness— embracing broad notions about similarities and differences.
In education, prioritizing cultural competence is an opportunity to create a welcoming environment where every student feels valued for who they are and what they bring to the table. It creates a sense of belonging, forging a connection between home and school environments and across cultures. Multilingualism is another opportunity that paves the way for continuous learning and proficiency in various languages. These methods are crucial for promoting diversity, fairness, and inclusivity as they nurture a better grasp and respect for cultures, histories, and traditions. They also safeguard languages and heritage while offering students distinctive career opportunities. Multicultural literacy in education encompasses all of these efforts and refers to the ability to see and understand things without letting cultural biases get in the way. It is about making fair judgments to gain a deeper understanding of situations by being open to different perspectives.
Best known for his theory on cultural literacy in education, E. D. Hirsch's work in 1988 turned into a more inclusive approach to tackling challenging social problems. Hirsch's emphasis on the importance of a shared knowledge base and cultural understanding in education has significantly influenced practices and curriculum development throughout the United States. Cultural literacy goes beyond memorizing facts to improve understanding and appreciation of different cultures. Michael Byram, another prominent academic known for his contributions to foreign language education and intercultural communication, emphasized the development of language skills alongside intercultural understanding and adaptability. Byram's model of Intercultural Communicative Competence involves three key elements—being open to different viewpoints, knowing and understanding various cultures, and being able to adjust well in diverse situations.
Openness means being open-minded and welcoming to different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. It requires students to be willing to learn from people from all kinds of backgrounds without judging them. Openness begins with self-reflection and requires an eagerness to explore our worldviews and experiences. Throughout this process of introspection, students become curious and ready to learn about themselves and the people in their classrooms, their schools, and their communities. An open attitude is one that respects diversity and feels at ease in the space between the familiar and unfamiliar.
Byram's approach also emphasizes the importance of children gaining factual knowledge, understanding different cultural perspectives, and being sensitive to cultural differences, ensuring they develop empathy, respect, and a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity. Objective information helps children grasp different cultural customs, beliefs, and behaviors, so they can understand how culture influences communication, leading to a better understanding of how culture affects how people act and talk. Taking Byram's approach to cultural sensitivity, we realize that engaging with diverse worldviews requires more than facts alone—it requires empathy and discovery. His approach highlights the importance of mutual understanding and growth as students from diverse backgrounds learn alongside each other, creating valuable opportunities for cultural exchange and learning.
Lastly, Byram's concept of intercultural communicative competence emphasizes the importance of adapting and adjusting one's behavior, communication style, and attitudes in response to different cultural contexts. This involves being flexible, open-minded, and adept at navigating cultural differences and potential misunderstandings effectively. Being able to adapt our actions can be challenging because it requires us to understand how we communicate and be willing to take positive risks. When interacting with people from different cultures, Byram advises individuals to embrace diverse cultural experiences, challenge assumptions, and approach dialogues with empathy, respect, and awareness of cultural biases. In a globalized world where children will regu-
larly encounter people from various backgrounds, both personally and professionally, cultural competence prepares them for what lies ahead.
One underlying thing to remember is that everyone wants to be accepted. In classrooms, this starts by finding meaningful ways for teachers, students, and families to get to know each other. This requires extra effort to recognize and include the different languages and knowledge students have when they come to school and to learn from their diverse experiences.
Intentional efforts start with teachers clearly explaining what respect means, encouraging behaviors that make the classroom a safe place, demonstrating how to resolve conflicts, and communicating effectively across different cultures. Teachers should also consider how to open up learning environments where intercultural dialogue and exchange can thrive in a safe and open manner.
Other intentional efforts can be made by including diverse cultures in the curriculum. A great way to begin is by incorporating multicultural texts into the classroom and ensuring they authentically represent diverse cultures, stories, people, and events. These texts should include genuine dialogue and descriptions of cultures, feature diverse individuals without resorting to stereotypes or tokenism (the superficial inclusion of a minority group for appearance's sake), and offer a variety of genres for students to explore. Schools should also host events to celebrate different traditions and invite leaders and representatives from multiple cultural communities into the classroom. This provides an opportunity to engage with communities beyond the school and demonstrates genuine interest in the lives of every student.
The journey of multicultural literacy begins with self-awareness. If we want empathetic curious and engaged global citizens, we need to acknowledge that although real differences exist, they are not obstacles but rather opportunities. Although it has many purposes, multicultural literacy's biggest success is bringing people closer together, no matter their culture or background.
"We have become not a melting pot but a beautiful mosaic. Different people, different beliefs, different yearnings, different hopes, different dreams."- Jimmy Carter
