Multi-Age & Teaming
Classroom Structures
Hanahau‘oli takes seriously the tenets of progressive education by creating a multiage learning environment (rather than grades i.e. first, second, third, etc.) in which students are taught by teams of teachers. This organization recognizes that children develop at different rates and levels of readiness and focuses on children’s continuous growth as the objective. Likewise, it reflects the way communities are organized, where people of different ages work, play and socialize together whether it be on the soccer field, as a member of a club, or in the workplace. Children spend two years with a team of teachers who get to know them well and can share their observations in support of individual learners. Families, too, benefit from this organization as they establish long-term relationships with teachers in support of their children’s growth. This organization also broadens the friendship possibilities for children and allows them to experience being newcomers to a group, then leaders or mentors to newcomers in alternating years throughout their school experience.
