|
What better place to start than the kitchen
table or the front porch swing?
Abiqua School began just so….
In 1991, a group of dedicated and trailblazing parents,
educators and community members began their quest to create a
model school within the Salem-Keizer School District under the
Oregon Educational Act for the 21st Century.
On large pieces of butcher paper taped to the surfaces of a
kitchen wall our founders outlined their guiding principles.
They believed that the places we live, the landscapes that
surround us every day, are the most enlightening, effective and
inspiring teaching "tools" that exist. Far from being a luxury
or a supplemental practice, learning by doing should be an
essential, core process of education. They wanted to increase
opportunities for experiential learning and access to quality
education for all students; encourage family and community
involvement in education; and empower inspiring teachers. They
envision small class sizes; high academic standards; innovative
approaches; and a holistic and integrated educational experience
that met the academic, social and emotional needs of each and
every student. They believed the ability to respond productively
to change is the most telling measure of a successful education.
Their vision became the foundation for Abiqua School
Although the proposal was denied, it blazed the path for Abiqua
School and all future Oregon charter schools. Through
perseverance, Abiqua opened as an independent school with 56
students on September 7, 1993. Working with the City of Salem’s
“Adopt-A-Stream” program, teachers and parents created and
implemented the curriculum, “Paddle to the Sea,” a model
integrated and thematic teaching program. This brain research
based curriculum was designed to increase intellect and academic
achievement through academic programs and teaching methods that
appreciate individual learning styles.
The work of the Founding Mothers earned Abiqua School the 1994
Education Excellence Award from the Associated Oregon
Industries.
Since the first school year, generations of Abiqua parents and
teachers have contributed to this vision to instill in our
students a passion for life-long learning, community service and
social action.
|
