Welcome to SIBE
In late August of 2018, I spilled a dozen sets of tools, safety goggles, jumper cables, and drill bits onto the narrow checkout counter at the local hardware store. The clerk eyed the pile with annoyance as I tried to balance the odd-shaped items, catching a few that slipped from the pile and retrieving several other determined escapees from the floor. As the line behind me grew, he inquired with a hint of derision, “What do you need all this for?”
“I teach robotics.”
Now he was interested. “At what college?”
“Not a college. I teach younger kids.”
He deflated. “Oh, you mean you teach gifted kids.”
He was already scanning the next item as I corrected him. “All kids are gifted.”
He stopped mid scan and looked right at me.
What he said next was the moment I realized I was doing something different.
“Thank you.”
Mission
The mission of SIBE is to recognize and value each learner’s individuality, to develop self-awareness and agency, and to build the skills of Communication, Collaboration, Creativity, Critical Thinking, and Compassion. Through these, and extensive high-tech integration, our students will leave SIBE ready for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Approach
Our approach is competency and project-based. Using individualized learning paths based upon interests and curiosity, students and mentors alike will be guided by Driving Questions to create projects that answer them.
As a vital part of this process, students - along with their mentors - will reflect on their work throughout and identify areas they want to improve. Personal Growth, Academic, and Practical Skills will be integrated in every project, along with the continual inclusion and development of tech skills.
How
A personalized Venn is created for each learner to recognize their unique strengths, interests, and skills needing development. Using the 5Cs as a guiding star, alongside each learner's strengths and interests, learning becomes meaningful, self-drive develops naturally, and confidence is gained, even in challenging lessons.
Many iterations of the Venn are made over the course of an educational journey to accommodate and reflect accomplishments, mastery, and changing interests.