Multi-Approach Structure

We believe that children thrive when given the freedom and support to step out of conventional educational expectations, explore the world around them with a mind open to any and all possibilities, and engage in those pursuits that excite them most. We promote the development of critical and creative thinking in our students and help them strengthen their sense of authority over what they study. Meaningful learning occurs naturally and inevitably at PSCS through the following approaches, though the pace, form, and content of learning will vary from student to student.

Block Class
A facilitated activity that meets multiple times per week in order to provide more focus for engaging a topic.

Class
A facilitated activity that typically meets once per week to investigate a particular topic.

Field Trip
A facilitated off-campus activity.

Independent Study
An unfacilitated, off-campus activity that has been pre-approved and furthers a student’s specific learning goals.

Individual Work
An unfacilitated, typically spontaneous on-campus activity that arises from a student’s curiosity in the moment or immediate interest.

Intensive
A facilitated, in-depth investigation into a theme or topic that takes place all day long over a period of several days.

Project-based Learning
An on-campus project structured around student goal-setting and meetings with an advisor.

Service Learning
Typically off-campus activity that is at least partially chosen to gift, help, or benefit other people.  Includes both the activity itself and reflection on the activity afterward.