Our Approach

Everyone learns better when they have ownership in the process. Our fully-credentialed facilitators are not traditional teachers. They cultivate interest, promote understanding and encourage participation, but do not overly control the learning process or outcome. Our facilitators provide structure and support while encouraging self-directed thinking, creativity and experimentation, thus motivating learners towards exceptional performance and rewarding them with a sense of accomplishment.

Everyone learns better when they feel equipped to succeed. This means learning to take charge of our own experiences, participate in the process, embrace the challenges, grow from our mistakes, manage our time, make positive choices, follow through with commitments, and find our own special way to contribute to the community.

Everyone learns better when they are an active participant rather than a passive recipient. When learning is experiential and real, it sticks longer and encourages more learning. Project-based learning brings concepts to life and helps those who learn differently experience it in more tangible ways. No matter the subject or grade level, hands-on activities create active and invigorated learners, increase focus and interest, and help bring the real world into the classroom.

Everyone learns better when they enjoy what they are doing. But fun doesn't mean easy — the best kind of fun is also challenging and lends a sense of satisfaction upon completion. "Hard fun" costs more in effort but pays more in rewards, it requires more time and focus but results in more meaningful outcomes in school and, ultimately, in life.

Everyone learns better when they have a chance to shine. While learners are part of a larger community and must meet state educational standards, each learner has their own potential and their own path. Our schools embrace individuality and provide space for honing talents, pursuing passions, and investigating interests, both inside and outside the classroom. Our schools offer a variety of classes, electives, clubs, sports, music, theatre, after-school enrichment, field trips, internships, college classes, and leadership opportunities, along with the necessary support and attention to help each learner be successful.

Everyone learns better with the proper tools. In today's world, skills in technology are as important as reading and writing. Our schools integrate technology in the classroom, project periods and other activities to help kids develop the skills needed to navigate our digital world. With computers, tablets, 3-D printers, software and internet access, we help our learners use technological tools for maximum impact.

Everyone learns better when they have a voice and feel connected to others. At Community Learning Center Schools, we encourage all stakeholders — learners, parents, facilitators, administrators and community members — to actively participate in the operation of our schools and help keep them dynamic and responsive to our learners' needs. We welcome and embrace learners of all types, backgrounds and experiences because a diverse and vibrant community helps all learners learn and thrive.