When the word “school” is said, the typical response is an “ugh” or a question of “Do I have to go?” For any age, learning can be stressful, confusing, and difficult. The Richland School of Academic Arts is combating that with unique class offerings. With open enrollment just around the corner, this could be a good time to introduce your child to a different, but just as effective kind of education.
Who says class has to be boring?
When walking into history teacher Dan Jones’s classroom, you are immediately taken back in time to the retro decades. With Star Wars and Back to the Future memorabilia lining the walls, along with student-made projects covering almost every surface, and an array of sitting options that are not the typical uncomfortable desks, there is no doubt this is where every kid wants to be learning.
The traditional structure of the classroom is for teachers to teach a lesson, give homework, then collect it the next day to be graded. Jones doesn’t believe in this method.
Since 2014, Jones has been implementing Flipped Learning and project-based assignments in his classroom. Combining the two together has given his students the ability to be more independent, learn the value of hard work, and be creative all while learning history.
“Students don’t retain the notes they take. They retain the experiences, the projects, the presentations that they gave. I want to create an environment where students look forward to coming to this class,” Jones said.
Kids are able to go through lessons at their own pace, watching prerecorded lectures and completing assignments in class, so they can answer questions or get clarification when needed.
Every unit also has a project to be completed, allowing the students to recreate history in their own unique way. Some students have recreated monumental moments with legos, made chess pieces of influential people, or painted/drew important scenes.
“One of my favorite parts about teaching is getting to interact with the kids on a daily basis and learning what their interests and passions are, so that I know how to engage them when it comes to projects and I can give them ideas,” Jones said.
Flipped learning may not be traditional, but that does not mean it’s not effective. Not only are students learning on their own terms, they are also enjoying it and looking forward to coming to class, according to Jones.
The only class where you can eat your assignments
Despite being a basic life skill, many people do not know how to cook simple meals. Chef Michael Daniels ensures that will never be a problem for any student that enters his classroom.
From making eggs (did you know it’s possible to prepare an egg 100 different ways?) to grilling the perfect steak, Chef Daniels shows his students how to prepare meals from all over the world while also teaching them the history of culinary arts.
This offering at RSAA is extremely popular with the students, and for good reason. Chef Daniels puts in a lot of time and care deciding on the meals the class will make, shopping for all of the ingredients, and ensuring safety guidelines are incorporated into the lesson plan and being followed. The school even has an all-season greenhouse where different grade level projects see food grown that is simple to learn and students are able to take home. The culinary class gets their fresh herbs for their meals from here.
Submitted by RSAA
Sometimes the students are able to make two different meals per class, allowing them to take some home for dinner or for their families to try.
“I love the culinary life, I have studied it immensely,” Chef Michaels said. “Every book I could pick up growing up about culinary or culture, I did and learned as much as I could. As I got older and more professional in the business, I took that culture and incorporated it into my classes.”
The culinary program at RSAA has only been offered for the past couple of years, but has already made such an impact on the school community. But like any other extracurricular, students must maintain good grades in their core classes in order to stay in the program.
Chef Daniels has kids as young as fourth grade creating delicious meals. Some of his students have been a part of his program for multiple classes, becoming more independent in the kitchen, or even taking on the role of helping the younger students.
“The kids get such a thrill out of this class. I love being able to mingle with them and help them understand the different cultures of culinary,” he said.
Creating the foundation of literacy
Reading can be seen as something you absolutely love or loathe, but no matter what it is a necessary tool for all.
Intervention and Engagement Director Shayla Logan strives to provide a fun literary experience for all of her students, while making them strong, confident readers.
Students are split into reading groups based on their skill levels, and are assessed three times a year to measure their progress. If a student needs more intense instruction, Logan and the other reading specialists are able to provide small group and 1:1 instruction to get them back on track.
“We’re here to give every student what they need and at first some of them might be reluctant, but then after a while they love coming, they love learning, and they look forward to lessons together,” Logan said. “I think that’s what keeps me going too and why it’s important, letting them see themselves as readers.”
Logan and RSAA strive to keep an open line of communication with every student’s family. To show the foundation they are building at school, the progress they’ve made, and what they can do at home to support their kid(s).
As a reader herself, Logan loves being surrounded by something she loves everyday. But for her, it’s more about the students and families she meets along the way.
“It’s a beautiful thing to build connections with students and their families. I want our families to feel supported and connected to our school, and I want all of our students to feel like they are seen and heard. I am truly grateful to be a part of continuing to build that.”
Open enrollment begins April 3rd. If you are interested in learning more and visiting the school to see if it is the right fit for your child(ren), visit the RSAA website or call 419-522-7273.
