Our learning environment focuses on a spirit of community. Second grade teachers foster a sense of belonging which heightens the feelings of children belonging. We focus on the individuality of each student and emphasize how every student's differences and strengths contribute to the classroom community we are creating.

By celebrating each student's uniqueness, we set a tone of acceptance and recognize the "gifts"/strengths in each other that contribute to a well rounded learning environment. We focus on a constructionist atmosphere that guides children in the direction of inquiring and promotes new patterns of thinking.

We encourage students to problem solve with prior knowledge, beliefs and skills. We monitor and guide them with inquiry and promote new patterns of thinking using their own experience.