Russian Hill School
and educational needs of children between the ages of three and six. Specific concentration in
social interaction, art, music, physical exercise and academic readiness are a tradition for this
thirty year old “cooperative learning” program.
The “mixed age” curriculum model was created around the belief that young children need a
balance between organized and free activity, in order to receive a maximum mental and
emotional growth. Different from most school environments, the program is specifically
structured to achieve that balance. Included in the program are indoor and outdoor educational
activities and free play opportunities.
After 24 years of service to the Russian Hill community, our school relocated in 2003 and is now
centrally located in Pacific Heights - but yes - we are keeping the Russian Hill name! Our new
classroom was thoughtfully designed by our founder and director Bonnie McFadden. Bonnie’s
colorful plan came to life thanks to the expertise and dedication of parents on our Board of
Directors. We have access to a private back yard, excellent local parks and a library. We take
field trips throughout San Francisco, the East Bay, and Marin with the help of terrific parent
support!
back on top
Learning Emphasis
The educational format at Russian Hill School is designed for “child-directed learning”, whereby
children are allowed to choose and/or create their own activities throughout the greater portion of
their school day. In such an environment, children come to accept creative independence while
learning in a highly social atmosphere.
back on top
Socialization Skills
Children learn to share and cooperate within a group situation through language-based
techniques which encourage altruistic solutions to social difficulties. Helping children to “use
words” instead of action and follow “talk-it-out” directives when dispute situations arise are
specific objectives for this program. Teaching methods and activities are designed to promote
group interaction, allowing children continual practice toward social development.
back on top
Academic Readiness
The mixed-age Open Classroom setting can provide a highly effective atmosphere for education
through child-directed activities. Learning from one another in a program which is planned to
facilitate multi-skill developmental needs, children at Russian Hill School form strong cognitive
and social skills in preparation for Elementary School. Reading and Math readiness is achieved,
primarily through play opportunities. Dramatic play programs activities and unit study approaches
incorporate activities suitable to encourage developmental of individual beginning skills.
back on top
Learning through Arts
A wealth of resources is available through art for maximizing the benefits to children in terms of
learning motivation, self esteem and cognitive growth. At Russian Hill School, the art “process” is
individualized for just-beginning skills.
This is to say that the art experience is presented with the intention to motivate children through
self mastery of tools and materials, according to their developmental readiness to learn.
Russian Hill School is dedicated to the belief that creativity is nourished through the sense of
personal achievement. Satisfying individual experiences are the result.
back on top
Self-Help Skills
Independence is fostered in children through exposure to continual situations which promote
this response. Our Open Classroom format is designed to teach self-reliance by offering
consistent practice with decision-making opportunities regarding the child activity and peer
involvement choices. “Learning by doing” with age-similar companions and adult guidance, is
the educational approach at Russian Hill School.
back on top
contact us directions diversity statement © 2003-2006 Russian Hill School |
 |
 |
 |
