Inspired School

Inspired School (n.) – A place where students’ intellects are valued as much as their imaginations and all adults work to ensure the structures, practices, and values in the building make the most of each child’s innate desire to learn.

You can find at least one Inspired Teacher in almost any school, but what would happen if every teacher in your school were Inspired?
What would that mean for overall school culture?

These are the questions we've been pondering for the past 12 years and our growing School Partnership Program is yielding promising answers. Last year we worked with 17 schools throughout DC at various levels of involvement. Research across the board showed that our courses, mentoring, lesson studies, and retreats helped not only to change the way teachers approached their jobs but also improved the overall educational experience of the students in these school buildings.

What courses can Inspired Teaching bring to my school?

Inspired Teaching's staff is specially trained in the development and facilitation of challenging and engaging courses tailored to meet the specific needs of your school. Any of our current course offerings can be adapted for a whole-school seminar. Please contact Kate Keplinger, deputy director, (202.462.1956) to learn more.

What happens in an Inspired School?#

An Inspired School is designed to support the intellectual, emotional, and physical growth of children toward the ultimate goal of empowering thoughtful, compassionate, involved, and responsible citizens who work to make positive change in their communities.

Instruction in Inspired Schools is challenging, engaging, and student-centered, and students achieve at high levels.

• Student voice is primary.
• Each child is challenged to reach his or her full potential as a learner.
  Students learn by doing.
• Questions and inquiry are the primary instructional strategy.
  
• Teaching is goal-oriented and well-planned to meet curriculum requirements and to meet the needs and interests of children.
• The larger community and world outside of individual classrooms is a key component in student learning.
• Students are assessed for meaningful learning.

It is clear that the school is a place where children thrive and where adults and children find joy in their work.

• The physical space of the school communicates a genuine focus on children.
• Children and adults are treated with respect.
• Approaches to discipline focus on helping children develop compassion, respect for others, self-discipline, and problem-solving skills.
• Parent involvement is integral.

Educators take ownership and become agents of change in their classrooms, schools, and beyond, so that changes are sustained.

• The school culture actively promotes ongoing learning and regular reflection.
  
• The school culture evidences the greatest respect for teachers as professionals, and embraces and nurtures teacher leadership.
  
• The school is a model for others in the education field.

Interested in a Partnership for your school? Click Here to Learn More!

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