Why The Willows Believes in a Balanced Progressive Education

Since our doors opened, The Willows Community School has rooted itself in a balanced progressive, innovative educational approach with strong academic roots, and an emphasis on instilling character and compassion, inspired intellectual fearlessness, and flexibility. Our commitment to offering an approach rooted in experiential learning and social values has been affirmed throughout the past 30 years.

The teachings of John Dewey have convincingly concluded that children learn best when they are active participants in the learning process. This philosophy is the foundation of our curriculum which is designed to allow children time to think and discover. At The Willows, we emphasize experiential and thematic instruction, critical thinking & problem solving, and the development of social emotional skills. 

Experiential and Thematic Instruction

Celebrated as individuals, role models, and leaders, our students participate in an adventure of learning. Hands-on experiences, engaging discussions, field trips, and collaborative activities are fundamental parts of the coursework. Students are empowered to take ownership of their learning journey, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-efficacy. By thinking “out of the box” our students see first-hand how the creative process works and how people collaborate to build on an idea. Our students do not passively receive information but are actively engaged in exploring and developing independence. Learning is an exciting, creative journey embracing self-discovery.

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

Willows students are encouraged to problem solve, think critically, ask questions, and take intellectual and creative risks. We challenge children to challenge themselves, and recognize that in an ever-evolving world, the ability to adapt and think creatively is imperative.

As current Willows parents, the Reisenwebers, share, “The Willows [is a] collaborative and intentional learning environment where children are encouraged to think, problem-solve, and ask good questions, not just have the right answers.” By emphasizing open-ended inquiry, curiosity, and resilience, our integrated approach equips students to become lifelong learners who are able to question, discover, and make thoughtful connections.

Social-Emotional Skills

In addition to developing academically, The Willows identifies and accentuates the importance of social-emotional wellbeing. Our educational program places emphasis on knowing yourself, cultivating empathy, and promoting well-being for our students, parents, and extended community through life skills classes, service-learning projects, and visiting speakers.  

Emotional intelligence, the ability to manage one's own emotions and perceive the emotions of others, has been proven to enhance academic and classroom performance, health, success, and conflict resolution. Since 2014, The Willows has integrated the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence RULER systemic approach to social emotional learning (SEL) throughout our school community. RULER is imbued in the life and culture of our school. 

The Willows places emphasis on experiential and thematic learning, critical thinking, and social-emotional development. By embracing these principles, we empower our students to become lifelong learners, compassionate leaders, and respectful, involved citizens-of-the-world.

Learn More About The Willows Community School

Contact Us to learn more about the benefits of a Willows’ education for your child.