The parent founders of MAP recognized that social, emotional, physical and academic development are interrelated and of equal importance.

Core values of responsibility, compassion, initiative and community have been developed by parents and teachers to strengthen the social and emotional development of the children in the classroom and beyond.  MAP encourages students to make choices and take responsibility for the outcomes of their choices.

Frequent classroom meetings on social and emotional issues are held to discuss situations that arise in the application of the program’s core values.  These meetings are integral to developing our nurturing learning community.

Each child has a formal “buddy” in one of the other classes and learning activities centered around buddy groupings are frequent.  This fosters relationships and community among the grades and creates another dynamic of older and younger siblings across the program in which children alternate between following and being the role model.

A positive discipline approach is taken to support self-esteem as it nurtures a sense of community and encourages children to take responsibility for their behavior.

Within our multi-age structure, as students work with students of different ages and abilities, a non-competitive, nurturing learning environment is created which encourages collaboration, risk-taking, exploring individual interests as well as an appreciation and respect for differences.  Teamwork is naturally learned through participation in the many projects that happen throughout the year.

The flexible classroom structure and open-ended curriculum provide opportunities for children to learn responsibility, self-motivation and self-discipline as they engage in collaborative projects and lessons and group problem solving.  The goal is to provide an environment that fosters a sense of responsibility to one’s self and one’s community, and encourages a global perspective.