Saint Rose School: An Innovative School Model
Saint Rose School, East Hartford, Connecticut, will open the next academic year, September 2009/2010, with one of the most exciting concepts in its distinguished history. In response to the significant challenges of educating students for the 21st century, the school will implement a multiage classroom model in grades pre-k through eight.
In contrast to the conventional graded classroom, multiage classrooms, or levels, group together students of different ability levels and different ages (at least a two-year span). Research shows that such a model provides “countless opportunities for children across grade levels to learn from each other and take on leadership roles in the classroom.” In what Bob Johnson, senior associate for the Society for Developmental Education, calls “the single best benefit of multiage grouping,” students remain with the same teacher for more than one year. “The teachers can go into the second year knowing how the children learn.”
The ultimate goal of the multiage model is to ensure that each and every student receives the optimal educational experience and that they are enriched and challenged academically according to their own personal abilities. The question arises – Is this not the Montessori Model? The Saint Rose School model differs from Montessori in significant ways. The multiage model includes Basal reading books and an adherence to strict Diocesan curriculum guidelines that all students must meet before they advance.
As an educator, Upper Primary teacher, Mrs. Ciparelli remarks, “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to teach in this unique learning environment. Teaching to a student’s ability as opposed to their age is very rewarding. Many ability levels in my classroom allows for more flexible grouping and gives every student the opportunity for individualized as well as small group instruction. Students who might not feel challenged by the grade level material in the traditional educational setting have the unique opportunity to work up to a higher level and excel at an academic level that is appropriate for them.”
Mrs. Mary Macunas, principal of St. Rose comments, “The model is not that much different from the way Catholic School teachers address the needs of every individual child. Close communication with parents allows us to challenge students but not frustrate them if they are not ready to move. All students have their own strengths and weaknesses and at a very young age each child explores and develops his or her gifts. Mrs. Macunas continues, “Our students walk away with a sense of accomplishment, which in turn increases their chances for academic success in the future. The goal of this program is to ensure that each and every student receives the optimal educational experience and that they are enriched and challenged academically in relation to their own personal ability.” For more information, please contact the school directly at 860-528-4169.
