
Vermont Day School is an independent school in Shelburne that opened with much success this fall. Students are enjoying exceptional academic instruction in core areas, project-based curriculum units, a specialized STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) program, and a rich variety of music, Spanish, art, and physical education offerings.
Teachers and administrators are focused on inspiring students to become creative thinkers, active problem-solvers, collaborative learners and effective communicators. Erin Capps, a Vermont Day School classroom teacher, described a class project. “Our current global studies topic is Ancient China and our literacy focus is non-fiction, so the students have explored what culture means and are researching various aspects of Chinese culture. As they do, they’re working together to create a book complete with a table of contents, illustrated pages, an index and a glossary that they will add to our school library.”
This is just one example of the collaborative and interdisciplinary nature of Vermont Day School classrooms. Creatively integrating subjects and emphasizing digital literacy is fundamental to a Vermont Day School education. As described by Sage Bagnato, the school’s founder and head of school, “We prepare students to make connections between disciplines and to apply their knowledge seamlessly in many different contexts.”
Vermont Day School values small class sizes and multi-age environments. Every student has personalized learning goals, with even the youngest children setting short-term and longer-term goals with the support of their teachers. “Our size and approach ensures that each child is engaged and learning at his/her instructional level,” said Bagnato.
Students need a solid academic foundation and experience in thinking critically, analyzing thoroughly, communicating clearly and collaborating often. Vermont Day School prepares students in this way so that they can embrace their futures with confidence and integrity, said Bagnato.
Vermont Day School is accepting applications for the 2016-17 school year and is hosting an informational meeting at 3pm on Nov. 8 for prospective families to visit the school, meet staff and teachers, and learn more. The school address is 6701 Shelburne Road, Shelburne. For additional information, visit vtdayschool.org or email Libby Macdonald, Director of Admissions, at info@vtdayschool.org to schedule a visit.