Education Philosophy

Built on the foundational principles of Expeditionary Learning (EL), Evergreen's educational approach centers on the belief that learning should be challenging, adventurous, and meaningful. We continue to draw deeply from these time-tested standards, tailoring them to our unique school community to cultivate authentic learning, strong character, and high academic achievement.

A classroom with multiple students seated at desks, some raising their hands. The students are diverse, and there is a bulletin board with decorations on the wall.
Four children exploring a forest, wearing casual clothes and writing in notebooks.
Two boys are examining a microscope together in a classroom, with other students working in the background and colorful posters on the wall.

Learning Expeditions

Learning Expeditions are a way of designing curriculum here at Evergreen. Grounded in topics derived from state education standards, expeditions use learning targets to identify project outcomes and goals. Teachers plan rigorous learning expeditions with compelling themes and guiding questions.

3 key aspects of Learning Expeditions:

  • Interdisciplinary Learning: Teachers weave core academics, like math, science, and language arts, together with environmental education, the arts, and technology.

  • Student Ownership: Students take charge of their learning process to create authentic, high-quality work designed for real audiences.

  • Presentations of Learning: Each expedition culminates in a public presentation where students showcase their growth and achievements.

A man with tattoos and glasses sitting at a table with two children, a boy and a girl, in a classroom. The boy is reading a paper and the girl is seen from the back, wearing a red jacket. The room has educational posters, bookshelves, and a map of the United States on the wall.

CREW

We are a crew, not passengers.

Founded on research that demonstrates social and emotional development as highly beneficial to academic success, CREW focuses on life skills and character development through innovative activities and lessons. CREW embodies the Evergreen experience and is sprinkled into classroom culture, enrichments, fieldwork, and end-of-year trips.

Circular infographic titled "Habits of Evergreen Scholars" with sections highlighting habits of self and related behaviors, including respect, compassion, self-regulation, integrity, curiosity, responsibility, craftsmanship, perseverance, and collaboration, emphasizing a personal commitment to being a scholar.

Habits of Scholars

Habits of Scholars provides consistency in the language and practice of character development. Evergreen students graduate with strength of character grounded in a deep sense of community.

I can work through a challenge.

I can be accountable for my choices.

I can do what is right.

I can desire to help others and can show appreciation.