SUMMER RECESS 2023 • EXTENDING OUR LEARNING OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
At Atlas, we leverage the unique resources of our fantastic city to provide unforgettable learning opportunities for our kids. We believe the City of St. Louis is an extension of our classroom and take many expeditions during each unit of study to local places like MADE, The Magic House, Circus Flora, and Forest Park, to name a few.
Why do we plan so many expeditions? Taking the learning outside the classroom fosters experiential learning, allowing children to apply their knowledge to the world around them. These adventures enhance their understanding, spark curiosity, and instill a love for learning that lasts a lifetime. By engaging in interactive experiences, students develop critical thinking skills, adaptability, and a broader perspective of the subjects they study.
As we wrap up our sixth academic session, let’s highlight some places Atlas Explorers have visited this month!
Tower Grove Park
Missouri Botanical Garden
Circus Flora
Counterpublic 2023
“During our weather unit we were given the flexibility to take a walk in the fog. This was a concept that was vaguely understood until this walk. The looks on the students’ faces as they were able to experience the fog first hand was extremely rewarding and we had a wonderful discussion afterwards about their observations.” - Mr. Andrew, Kindergarten Lead
“When we visited the Playscape, we came back to school and made photo collages with captions showing the different ways that we played on the structures. It was a great way to combine art, literacy, and firsthand research!” - Ms. Jenny, ELA Dean of Instruction
“Many of our younger students are experiencing brand new things and visiting places for the very first time. We are so lucky to be able to join them in their journey as they explore the city and world around them.” - Mr. Jeff, Director of Operations
“I love that more and more classes are taking their students outside! Even when we don't have an expedition planned, classes are using our school grounds to bird-watch and observe trees outside. This morning, a student came to school all excited to tell us about a woodpecker he heard outside his house.” - Ms. Kristine, Performing Arts
Bringing the Experts In
When we provide our students with opportunities to ask questions and grapple with real world problems, they develop important skills: collaboration, communication, citizenships, critical thinking, and creativity, to name a few. Because of this, we love to invite experts from our community into our building! Our families are also a great resource and we love to tap into their areas of expertise as well!
Bjorn Ranheim, cellist from the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, visits kindergarteners at Atlas Elementary. Mr. Bjorn played several songs for us and led discussions on how sound can evoke different emotions. What a treat!
World Bird Sanctuary
Join Us!
Do you have a child with a spirit of adventure who would benefit from our real-world approach to learning? We still have a few spots for incoming K-3 students for the 2023-2024 school year. Take 5 minutes to fill out an application today!
