What is Progressive Education?

Progressive Education is a pedagogical approach that began in the late nineteenth century that has recently gained more popularity as parents and students search for schools that are not solely focused on testing.  Most progressive environments include an emphasis on learning by doing, integrated curriculum, programs that inspire critical thinking and group work and collaboration.  Education for social responsibility and democracy, service learning, and a value of life-long learning are also key aspects of a progressive educational approach.  Students are assessed using a variety of measures including traditional testing, but also projects, productions, multi-media works, arts and music performances, and speeches. A commitment is shared on the part of all constituents that schooling is a holistic endeavor that includes academic preparation and skills and knowledge building as well as social, emotional, community, creative, and interpersonal development.

What is College Prep?

College Prep schools are defined by their selective admissions process, challenging academics and reputations for sending graduates to high quality universities and colleges.  Other benefits include low student-to-teacher ratios, a variety of advanced curriculum course offerings, and a focus on giving students access to resources and programs that encourage "well-roundedness". College Prep schools offer plays, concerts, sports teams, and college counseling services and also encourage parents to be as involved as possible by volunteering and/or donating to school development initiatives.

The Khabele School embodies both of these definitions of schooling, Progressive and College Prep.  Although these two approaches may have historically been viewed as different on the spectrum of educational options, we aim to consistently provide both in the same setting.  Our school emphasizes both flexibility and rigor, individual and community performance, content mastery and artistic expression, and tradition and innovation.