Coupled with our inquiry based curriculum is an interdisciplinary approach to many student projects; a layered and subtle teaching method that encourages academic curiosity and critical thinking. Below are several samples of the covers created by 6th grade students of their chosen bird for their research project.

As Julie DelPrado '89, art teacher for Grades 4-6, writes: "Each spring the 6th grade participates in a project-based learning experience with science, ELA, and art. In science they select and research all aspects of a local bird. In ELA they write their findings in the form of a report. In art they create a visual representation of their bird to be used as the cover of their report. In the above example, after studying and practicing collage techniques, students gathered colors and textures from magazines, painted paper scraps, and found fabrics to include in their collage. They then sketched their ideas, making specific compositional choices to best showcase their bird. They were tasked with displaying the physical features of the bird including coloring, scale, and proportion; showing the bird’s natural habitat; and including elements that suggest or display one or more behavioral elements unique to their birds. Once complete their reports are available for the entire school to view and read."

Come visit our classes and learn more about our program from students and faculty – register for a tour.

What is a Rigamajig?

It’s a large-scale building kit designed for small groups of students to engage in creative hands-on learning and play. This collection of wooden planks, wheels, pulleys, nuts, bolts, and rope allows children to follow their curiosity while learning how to build and create.

It was designed by Cas Holman, a professor of industrial design at RISD. She works with schools, teachers, and children's museums to study the "connections between design education, early childhood, and play." And the feedback so far is that it’s also really fun!

Look for our Saturday Rigamajig play days, as well as other events, here.

Our campus is full of natural beauty – including fields, trails, and a pond – and is surrounded by over 200 acres of conservation land. We consider it another classroom and integral to our program, whether for art students sketching fauna, or for young scientists studying water samples.

Come explore and see our 67 acre classroom for yourself – register for a tour.