Background Information
Empowering Minds, Connecting Learning to the World
At Silverton Public School, we follow the EL Education model, partnering with school districts nationwide to create a dynamic and supportive learning environment. Our approach fosters:
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Active instructional practices that build skills and motivation
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Real-world projects aligned with academic standards
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A culture of kindness, respect, and responsibility
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Shared leadership and a commitment to school improvement
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A focus on teacher growth to create engaging, challenging classrooms
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Our students are encouraged to think critically, take active roles in their learning, and persevere through challenges. Teachers promote a growth mindset by reinforcing effort and progress, encouraging students to embrace challenges and achieve higher levels of success.
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We believe in transforming education through meaningful, active learning that connects students to real-world experiences and prepares them for a purposeful future.
The EL motto, "We are crew, not passengers," emphasizes cooperation, empathy, and responsibility. Much of our curriculum centers on learning expeditions, which focus on compelling topics like the water cycle, U.S. history, or global studies. These expeditions are enhanced by fieldwork, where students actively engage with experts, conduct research, and connect classroom learning to the real world.
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Fieldwork, unique to the EL model, is especially vital in Silverton’s small, isolated community. For example, a middle school expedition on U.S. immigration culminated in a trip to San Francisco, where students visited Angel Island and worked with refugee and immigrant students, deepening their understanding of immigration issues.
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EL Education Classrooms Are Built On Five Core Principles:
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Challenging Learning: Students and teachers pursue excellence, going beyond standards and embracing academic courage.
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Active Learning: Students engage as scientists, artists, and activists, contributing to their communities through authentic work.
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Meaningful Learning: Students apply their knowledge to real-world problems, seeing education as a tool for positive change.
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Collaborative Learning: Our school fosters respect, responsibility, and belonging for all, encouraging a supportive, inclusive environment.
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Public Learning: Students showcase high-quality work to the community, reflecting on their growth and achievements.
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At Silverton, we believe in learning that goes beyond the classroom—
preparing students to face the world with confidence, purpose,
and a sense of responsibility.