How is Centerpoint different from more traditional
programs?
This question is difficult to answer because many of the components of
our program are found in other effective classrooms. What makes us unique
is that our entire school is committed to being a child-centered, multi-age,
non-competitive, whole language program.
Our level of parent involvement is another way we differ from other programs.
Parents are not merely welcome at Centerpoint; they are an integrated and
essential part of our school. Without their involvement, Centerpoint as
we know it could not exist.
Finally, Centerpoint is a supportive community that allows us all to be
teachers and learners. Class meetings, k-5 family groups, and celebrations
are just a few of the ways we maintain this community.
What does child-centered mean?
At Centerpoint, child-centered means that children's ideas, interests and
abilities help determine the curriculum. We gear our activities towards
the children's physical, social, and emotional levels rather than on what
a textbook publisher says children in that grade should learn. Our teachers
serve as both instructors and guides.
Child-centered also means that we provide a safe, supportive environment
that helps learners take risks and challenge themselves.
What does multi-age mean? Why does Centerpoint combine grade levels?
Multi-age generally means that two or more grade levels are taught together.
Centerpoint's current grade structure is K, 1, 2/3, and 4/5.
Combining grade levels has many benefits. Teachers know their children
better so they spend less time assessing and more time teaching. Children
and their families are familiar with the teachers so they are more comfortable
and spend less time learning routines. The wider range of ages and abilities
in multi-age classrooms encourages children to develop social skills, and
to focus on their own growth rather than compete against each other.
What is whole language?
Whole language teachers and researchers believe that children learn to
read and write the same way that they learned to speak, through practice
and approximation in a supportive environment. We also believe that children
learn at different rates and in different ways.
In our classrooms children become proficient readers and writers by reading
and writing every day. They use language to accomplish real tasks, such
as planning and creating a prairie, writing and performing a play, or researching
and sharing topics that interest them. Centerpoint children commonly take
part in read aloud, silent reading, book clubs and reading lessons. In
writing workshop they write independently and collaboratively. They also
take part in writing lessons. Back to top of page.
Will my child be taught phonics?
Yes. Phonics is part of any well-balanced whole language program. Breaking
words into phonetic pieces is one of the strategies we teach to help children
read, write and spell. We integrate phonics instruction into our reading,
writing and speaking activities in a natural way. Back to top of page.
Since Centerpoint doesn't give letter grades, how will I know how my child
is doing?
Centerpoint uses many forms of assessment, including test, projects, surveys,
self-assessments and teacher observation. Parents, children and their teachers
conference in September and March to set goals and assess progress. The
children present their work during portfolio nights in December and May.
We send home progress reports based on our outcomes three times a year.
How much parent involvement is required?
Volunteers at Centerpoint are more than just "occasional helpers".
Our community encourages a volunteer commitment of approximately 40
hours a year per family (about 1 hour per week).
To best utilize our families' time and talents, we offer a variety of flexible
volunteering options. Families can work at home, at school or on the phone.
The Centerpoint staff willingly works with families to involve them in
ways that fit into their schedules, the classrooms' schedules and our volunteer
needs.
Is this a gifted and talented or accelerated program?
No, Centerpoint is not a gifted and talented or accelerated program. Students
of all abilities take part. We do not track students in high, medium and
low ability groups. Instead, students learn in mixed-ability groups.
Is Centerpoint an individualized program?
No, Centerpoint is not an individualized learning program. However, our
structure allows students to challenge themselves in many ways. For example,
they choose many of the books they read and the topics they write about.
They choose literature projects and math extensions to complete. We encourage
families wishing additional challenges to plan their own projects at goal
setting times. We expect families to help their children accomplish these
goals.
How is discipline handled at Centerpoint?
We believe that punishing children does not help them improve their behavior.
Instead, we use reasonable, related, respectful consequences to help children
accept responsibility for their actions and change their negative behaviors.
We hold class meetings and teach conflict resolution skills to help children
solve problems constructively. Centerpoint also takes part in a building-wide
behavior program that encourages children to manage themselves responsibly.
General Information
Are special education and other district services available at Centerpoint?
Yes. We provide all services available at other district elementary
schools. Centerpoint students work with the same building specialists
as students
in other schools, including the special education, speech, media,
music basic skills and physical education specialists. Centerpoint
families have
access to the same services, including busing, free and reduced lunches,
and extended daycare.
The Parkview building houses two separate schools. Do Centerpoint students
interact with students in the other school?
Yes, they interact in student council, on the playground and at extended
day. They share the lunchroom, the media center and many assemblies.
Periodically, classrooms from each program collaborate on projects.
How hard an adjustment is it to move into Centerpoint?
Children generally transition well into Centerpoint. They quickly
make friends and feel comfortable in their new classrooms. By the
end of the
first term, most children have adjusted to the new learning environment.
Your involvement at Centerpoint will ease your child's transition.
How do Centerpoint students do when they move on to middle school?
A study of Centerpoint students through high school indicated they
are successful, take on leadership roles and continue as motivated
self directed
learners. Recent comments from students and parents support the study's
findings and indicate that they are adjusting well.
Is Centerpoint suitable for an active child who is very distractible?
Centerpoint is suitable for most students. However, extremely distractible
students may not be able to concentrate in our classrooms because
of the high activity level in each classroom most of the day.
How will I know if Centerpoint is an appropriate program for my child?
As you tour Centerpoint, check to see that you are comfortable with
our school climate, our philosophy and our curriculum. When you attend
the
Prospective Family Information Night, talk with us until you have
a clear understanding of our program. One of the key factors affecting
the success
of our students is their parents' support for the structure and philosophy
of the Centerpoint program.
