• Message from the Principal
• Philosophy
• Faculty/Staff
• SRV in Brief
• Board of Directors
• School Environment
• Diversity
• Employment Opportunities
• Community Impact
• Directions
• SRV By the Numbers
• Symposium

The educational philosophy and practice developed at the school's founding were based on the writings of progressive educators such as John Dewey and have been bolstered by decades of experience and study. While the philosophy developed at The School in Rose Valley nearly seventy-five years ago has evolved and progressed with the changing world, the core beliefs of the founding parents and teachers about what is right for children have been proven again and again. Today, there is broad-based recognition that the ability to observe, reflect, and formulate questions; the motivation to learn, create, and act upon personal initiative; the practice of democratic leadership and collaboration within groups; the respect for others; and the regard for nature must first be nurtured at the elementary education level. As a progressive school, we are guided by the following principles in developing our learning environment.

Learning should be child centered. The facilities, curriculum and teaching methods should be developmentally appropriate and responsive to individual children's strengths, interests, and learning styles. Experiences in self-direction, making choices, and taking risks help children develop into confident, independent, life-long learners.

Learning should be active. Children learn best by doing things themselves. They should be given opportunities to explore and discover the world, to use a variety of materials, and to participate in activities and experiences that help them construct knowledge for themselves. Challenges, questions, encouragement, and time for reflection help them integrate and apply their understanding. They emerge as critical thinkers and problem solvers.

Learning should engage the whole child. Children have emotional, social, moral, physical, intellectual, and creative needs, and all of these needs should be addressed in the learning environment. Learning that embraces the full scope of children's lives is rich and meaningful. Children who are encouraged to experience all that the world has to offer develop habits of openness, curiosity, and joy in learning and doing.

Learning should have purpose. Children need to master the skills of analysis and communication, as well as those of living and working with others. Teaching them to respect all living things and connecting their lives to the larger context of community helps them become sensitive and informed citizens. They develop perspective and judgment, and are empowered to act.