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Our students learn in a supportive community of mentors and peers Our WellSpring Community is the foundation stone of our school. We foster community in myriad ways, from the classrooms organized in discussion circles to travel journeys and weekly field studies which call for group cooperation. We're an intellectual community; we love the sciences and the arts and we are strong environmentalists. We are a service community: we believe we should give back more than we take, and we ask all our students and staff to do “service-learning,” i.e. volunteer work. We are a peaceful community: we offer courses in conflict resolution, psychology, emotional intelligence; we work our problems out face to face; we teach and learn patience and leadership skills. An atmosphere of peace and acceptance makes possible our diverse school community. WellSpring's student-centered curriculum supports each student's unique intelligences, gifts, aptitudes and learning styles. Every WellSpring student has a personalized learning plan that encourages his or her interests, goals, academic and personal strengths, and areas for growth and improvement. Students will have multiple opportunities to practice skills they have learned, and to reflect upon them through discussion-oriented classes. Our goals are for our students to develop the knowledge, ethics, and skills necessary to make creative responsible, and positive life choices; to demonstrate an ability to apply their knowledge in personal and community making decisions; to communicate their viewpoints intelligently; to enjoy the process of informing and inspiring others in meaningful ways; and to make a difference in their community through service and stewardship projects. An inter-disciplinary and experiential curriculum. Each year we select themes which integrate the subject areas. Important concepts are more meaningful and relevant when considered from the perspective of different course subjects. For instance, our theme of "World Peace and Sustainable Futures" focuses on how technologies, politics, the sciences, the humanities, economics, and the arts are currently shaping the world we are becoming. Our students study the structure of world politics through relevant current events. Our science classes study health, the ecological systems, and alternative energies that will shape the future for a more sustainable life. In English classes, student assignments reflect their knowledge and viewpoints. And, whenever possible, we consider the practical applications of knowledge. Weekly field studies and block times are devoted to studio art, science field studies, service learning and hands-on projects. Fine arts and experiential learning enhance our studies. Full-time and Part-time Learning at WellSpring. WellSpring provides a full-time high school program for 35+ pstudents a year. Students receive adequate credits to meet the WA State graduation requirements. College bound students will graduate with transcripts and sufficient preparation needed for college entrance requirements. Running Start students can attend WellSpring while enrolled in Whatcom Community College or Bellingham Technical College classes. Part-time options, independent studies, vocational apprenticeships, and tutorials are also available. WellSpring School is fully accredited with the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools. WellSpring's Faculty We believe that one of the primary elements of the education process is a healthy relationship between student and teacher, a relationship inspired by mutual respect and understanding. WellSpring's faculty is a community of scholar-teachers who love their work and are passionate about their disciplines. They engage their students and enjoy their company. Each student, supported by an outstanding group of committed teachers, receives the personal attention necessary to reach his or her goals. |
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