School Description:
The New School is a Living Arts Alternative School with an emphasis on Functional Design and Environmental Stewardship. Our educational model is developed primarily for “different learners” including children with high functioning autism to succeed in a non-competitive academic environment that does not exclude “typical” learners. Our aim to inspire each student’s love of learning, enabling them to develop their unique capacities with a “hands on” approach to living arts with a care and respect for the natural environment. Situated on Little Pottsburg Creek, the unique school environment allows for in depth study of a tidal creek habitat, and numerous opportunities for nature study.
Our vision includes a holistic approach to academics in which math, science, social studies and literature are learned through direct experiences with nature and the arts. The curriculum also includes music, dance, theater, visual arts and emotional literacy, creating a well rounded education. This approach is enhanced by core beliefs of valuing and respecting each individual’s strengths and differences, in a developmentally appropriate, balanced approach to education. This is accomplished in a welcoming community where students learn to take care of themselves and each other by ultimately replacing a spirit of self- centeredness and competition with community collaboration.
Central to this learning experience is access, apprenticeships, and mentoring with artists, professionals and educators in the community who share their areas of expertise with the students. These relationships will enhance the students learning opportunities and provide them with a strong foundation in the areas of arts, design and environmental arts. High school students will benefit from choosing a preferred track in areas such as graphic arts, fiber arts, organic gardening, culinary arts, architectural arts and furniture design. Students will be prepared to make a creative contribution to society upon graduation. Both regular and special diploma will be offered.