In turn, they practiced the steps taken by archeologists to carefully excavate this pit. As a result, as true scientific sleuths, they are attempting to describe each others' culture and lifestyle from the artifacts recovered from the dig. The spirit that is Vista del Valle is one that neighbors, parents and former students tell us has existed in many forms, but always with the conviction that learning must be joyful and rigorous and can't be done isolated or in a vacuum. Our outdoor teaching areas like Chapman Ranch at Mount Baldy, the compass course in the park, the riparian environment, the archeological dig, the raised bed vegetable and water gardens, the native plant area, and the wrap-around murals are there to invite inquiry, provoke curiosity, and encourage creativity and the application of critical life skills. Our doors are always open.
Parents are welcome as observers, volunteers, classroom helpers and critical friends.
It takes vision, flexibility and a commitment from teachers, parents, students and a community of friends to keep the magic alive.