Teaching & Learning
Teaching & Learning
Spark! Teaching and Learning immerses students in teaching and learning. Students will understand learning styles, teaching methodologies, technology integration, cultural responsiveness and a focus on data-driven decision making in the schooling system. Students will engage in a collaborative relationship between teachers, administrators, students and families. This experience will focus on the general theory and practice of learning and teaching; the basic principles of educational psychology; the art of teaching; the planning and administration of educational activities; and the social foundations of education. Students will experience the true essence of the teaching and learning process through observation, interaction and teaching. Students may participate in Spark! for two consecutive years if their schedule allows.
Spark! Teaching & Learning meets at Highcroft Ridge Elementary School in the Parkway School District.
Dual credit is available through University of Missouri – St. Louis, Lindenwood University and Maryville University.
A key component of Spark! Teaching & Learning is to ensure all students are capable, curious, caring and confident learners who understand and respond to the challenges of an ever-changing world.
Below is a sampling of some of the experiences that help us to meet our Mission:
Highcroft Ridge Elementary- Home Site: observations, field experiences, immersion
Seminars with Experts: Superintendent, Principals, Curriculum Coordinators, DODEA (Department of Defense Education Activity Specialists)
Exposure to various fields within education: Classroom Teaching, Social Work, Counseling, Speech Pathology, Instructional Coaching, Behavior Specialist
Teach Anti-Bullying Lessons to 4th graders around the District
Choice Field Experiences: self selected visits to various school sites arranged by student based on interest, content, grade level
Internship: (self selected) 40 + hours of an immersive "student teaching" experience
We succeed when each student and each graduate: • transfers prior learning to new demands, in and out of school • is fully prepared for future educational challenges • is a creative, thoughtful and effective problem solver • is increasingly a self-directed, skilled and persistent learner • is a literate and critical consumer of information and ideas • speaks articulately and listens effectively • acts out of a strong sense of personal, social and civic responsibility • seeks to understand the views, values and cultures of others • works skillfully with others to achieve common goals • pursues a personal direction based on individual talents and interests