On this page, we’ll share links and insights into educational practices. We want to address the North Branch experience and the bigger picture of education.
Transcript of Head of School, Smith Coleman’s TEDxCharlottesville talk on 9/29/19:TEDxTalkSept2019
North Branch students experience time outdoors every day for unstructured play and classroom instruction. http://www.countryliving.com/uk/wildlife/countryside/a29712170/wildlife-trusts-children-nature/
While the title of this interview with Simon Sinek on “Inside Quest” is “Millennials in the Workplace,” there is much here germane to all parents. NBS teachers especially were interested in the correlation between cell phones and a decline in social & interpersonal skills. The good news is that we see every day that hands-on experiences, with an emphasis on cooperation, help to build these skills. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hER0Qp6QJNU
This article in The Atlanic shares ideas for creating an uplifting Middle School experience. Many of these are in practice at NBS: 1) “…those who didn’t have to transfer from their elementary schools fared better.” 2) Keep recess as part of their day. 3) “…implement a 20-minute snack break at 10:45…” It’s that specific: 10:45, the exact time everyone at NBS has snack & break! NBS teachers would add that actively engaging with younger students is a HUGE plus of the NBS Middle School experience. https://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2019/10/why-middle-school-and-preteens-are-so-challenging/599542/
