AD Educational Philosophy-Mission
Regional School Unit 1 believes in working with the community to meet the individual educational needs of all students through trust, teamwork and communication. We will strive to provide safe schools where learning is desirable, authentic, challenging and reflective of students' diverse needs, interests and ideas. We believe that all students must be provided equal but not identical opportunities to allow them to achieve at levels commensurate with their abilities. Together, we will prepare students for their future by providing a challenging core of curricular expectations that integrates technology. We believe that progress is only possible with change and we will improve performance through on-going evaluations making RSU 1 a model of educational excellence.
RSU 1 is committed to foster in students a lifelong commitment to intellectual exploration, individual growth, and social responsibility by inspiring and supporting them to strive for academic and personal excellence within an ethical framework that places the highest value on honor and respect for others.
OBJECTIVES
In the practical application of this philosophy, opportunities shall be provided which challenge each student to the maximum of his/her capacity. The staff will encourage students:
A. To learn, insofar as his/her ability permits, to think critically and act effectively through the mastery of the basic skills, such as reading, writing, mathematics and the use of written and spoken language, science, history, the arts, as well as current technology;
B. To develop and appreciate our national, state and local heritage, and gain knowledge of the culture and history of other peoples;
C. To develop intellectually, emotionally, morally and socially so that problems of everyday living can be dealt with successfully;
D. To develop a healthy body;
E. To develop intellectual curiosity and creativity;
F. To acquire the basic preparation for various vocations and professions in society; and
G. To develop as life-long learners.
THE STUDENT AND METHOD
Desirable learning is based on worthwhile effort and active
participation on the part of the student - his/her experiences in facing
problems, seeking solutions, planning, sharing in work to be done,
recognizing mistakes and evaluating what has been done.
A curriculum calling for constructive activity on the part of the
individual suggests that the method of education is increasingly that of
guided self-education. A rigorous core curriculum designed to achieve
specific learning outcomes will be provided. It will be planned with the
goal of creating and maintaining standards which will furnish students
with the skills necessary for success in a global society while giving
them a broad educational foundation compatible with their interests,
aptitudes and aims. The curriculum and graduation requirements will be
regularly evaluated to ensure their continued appropriateness. The
school directs learning opportunities; these opportunities encourage
responsibilities to be taken by the students.
We believe that students learn best when they are interested and when
they have a sense of need and purpose.
The teacher's task is to inspire, challenge, direct, discover,
strengthen interests, help the student to set objectives that are
worthwhile, attainable and dynamic, and to guide the student's efforts
of self-education.
Teachers and the system as a whole should strive to instill a continuing
desire to learn.
The basic worth and dignity of the human being should at all times be
defended and upheld.
Adopted: January 9, 2006
Revised: February 24, 2014
This is a required policy.