Developmentally responsive Schools are organized to provide small learning communities of adults and students in which stable, close, and mutually respectful relationships support all students' intellectual, ethical, and social growth. Students have opportunity for both independent inquiry and learning in cooperation with others. They have time to be reflective and numerous opportunities to make decisions about their learning. Adults in these schools provide comprehensive services to foster healthy physical and emotional development. Further, these schools are deeply rooted in their communities.
Students have opportunities for active citizenship.
They use the community as a classroom, and community members provide resources, connections, and active support. Socially Equitable Schools are organized to provide small learning communities of adults and students in which stable, close, and mutually respectful relationships support all students' intellectual, ethical, and social growth. Students have opportunity for both independent inquiry and learning in cooperation with others. They have time to be reflective and numerous opportunities to make decisions about their learning. Adults in these schools provide comprehensive services to foster healthy physical and emothional development.