Learning Studios

At North Park, we believe that in the 21st century, teachers are tasked with the job of preparing students for a future we can only imagine. Our children may someday work in fields and jobs that do not yet exist. The 4 C's of 21st Century Skills - collaboration, communication, critical thinking and creativity - are as integral to the future success of our children as phonics and math facts. We integrate the practice of the 4 C's throughout our learning day with high rigor and relevance through a Science, Technology integration, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM). We see this also benefitting our student's communication, creativity and critical thinking skills. 

Our Learning Studios allow students to work on the 4 C's and other skills with the teacher as a facilitator and guide. Students learn by doing things on their own, with other students, and with teachers in small groups. Instruction is personalized and focused on the needs of the students. There is a lot of choice from where students sit, from what they read to how they show what they have learned. Technology is integral. Students in the Learning Studios are experts at using digital devices to access content, practice skills, record observations, and create a variety of projects to share what they have mastered.

Our students have the opportunity to practice 21st Century Skills through hands-on engineering explorations and student-driven project-based learning. The Learning Studio allows for plenty of flexibility, movement, and choice during these projects. The structure of the programming and procedures in the studio allows for students to get help when they need it and they quickly learn that everyone is a teacher and their classmates are excellent resources. The Learning Studio prepares students for real-world work situations where they will need to collaborate with others, problem-solve by using critical thinking skills, use creativity, and communicate with others in a variety of ways. It is truly superior to a traditional classroom!

To schedule a tour to experience the innovation occurring in our three Learning Studios, please call Principal Jeff Cacek at 763-528-4305.