The vision of PiggyBack Primary is to provide an alternative to both the traditional in-person classroom and the ever more prevalent virtual - distance learning model and could supplement homeschool. I see a community of children emerging who love learning. Each day, they can't wait to get to class and participate actively in their education.
Inquiry, Investigation, and Imagination are nourished. I will facilitate the students' studies - but the direction we take will often be up to them!
Children will -- become avid readers and prolific authors; delight in math concepts; curious about science and love it; and have regular opportunities to express themselves artistically.
Their self esteem and leadership will be nourished by embracing the key values of Integrity, Respect, and Responsibility. The will become acutely award of what it is to be a kind, caring, and empathetic human being.
My Preferred Schedule*
Quiet Reading or Journal Time as students arrive (15 min)
Morning Meeting to include a read aloud; song; calendar and other math concepts, as well as, a morning message - which would focus on writing skills. (15-20 minutes)
Math - Teacher instruction - Guided Practice - Independent Work - all math would be interactive, hands-on, and inquiry rich.
Break - outdoor activity snack (15 minutes)
Literacy Time - Phonics and Word Study; Guided Reading; Independent Work (45-60 minutes)
Writer's Workshop - Mini Lesson; each child working with my support at their level on writing a "PiggyBack Book" or an original piece of writing. Each session ends with Author's Chair: 1 or 2 students will share their writing with class. (30-40 minutes)
Lunch and free play - outdoor time (30 minutes)
P.E. 20 minutes to include Yoga, interactive games; creative movement; ball skills; calisthenics; etc... (all socially distant)
Thematic Study: Science/Social Studies/Art etc... Themes will rotate every 2-3 weeks between Science (STEM/STEAM) and Social Studies. Art will be integrated into the themes. The theme will also influence all aspects of the curriculum, as applicable. Thematic work will also reinforce using reading, writing and math to learn.
(90 minutes)
End of the Day Meeting (10 min)
*(If following District Virtual Platform - this would likely be different)