Willowwind School
“Education is not a preparation for life; education is life itself.” -John Dewey
Progressive Education is a movement that values experiential learning and the development of each child’s unique talents and passions. The work of Willowwind is inspired by educational philosophers and theorists, like Maria Montessori, Friedrich Froebel, and John Dewey. Montessori teaches us to guide children's natural interests through self-directed activities, hands-on learning, and collaboration. Teachers are reminded to give thoughtful attention to materials and environment. Froebel's work emphasizes the importance of play in early learning. He believed in nature's creation of the perfect classroom for children to develop their senses and grow in their curiosity and appreciation for the world around them. Dewey was an influential leader of the progressive education movement and an important developer of project-based learning. He advocated for classrooms to function as democratic communities where students take an active role in decisions about what and how to learn. Dewey believed in four key principals of education - experiential learning or learning by doing, discussion, interactive processes, and interdisciplinary approaches.
Willowwind aims to foster the whole child, provide experiential learning opportunities, and engage students in meaningful discussion, while recognizing the importance of foundational skill building. Our Montessori-inspired early childhood programming provides our youngest learners with an intentionally prepared space to freely explore and grow in their autonomy and interests. Our project-based learning model in the primary and upper elementary grades engages students as active participants in their learning and society. As a progressive school, Willowwind is committed to its interdisciplinary approach to teaching and learning and supporting our students’ deep intellectual development and healthy identity formation - as growing individuals, as active learners within a school community, and as engaged citizens in the broader world.
Progressive Education Network
Willowwind partners with the Progressive Education Network (PEN). Through this partnership, we are able to tap into a wealth of resources and professional development opportunities, as well as maintain integrity and connection within the progressive education realm.