Classes

In designing courses of study, we seek to balance small group classes and one-on-one instruction. Both classroom settings offer distinct venues for discovery where students pursue limitless options while also being a member of a dynamic school community. With these dual classroom models as the foundation for learning, we ensure that students will thrive in all future stages of their educational and professional journeys.

In a one-on-one class, students have the freedom to progress through material at their own pace and pursue their interests fluidly within the context of the curriculum. The mentoring relationship between the teacher and student fosters a collaborative and creative learning environment. In this setting, students take intellectual risks and experience sustained classroom engagement. One-on-one classes are particularly well suited to accelerated courses, where there need be no artificial finish line or limit to achievement. Equally, when students meet academic obstacles, these obstacles can be addressed directly and immediately. While larger schools must conform to the needs of the majority of students, Beacon students have the opportunity to take advanced or nontraditional classes as a seamless part of their course of study. Through the medium of one-on-one classes, course selection becomes limitless. Younger students benefit from specialized electives, and students in the upper grades are free to pursue their academic passions–under the guidance of our college counseling department, of course! From Russian, neurobiology and acoustics to architecture, music theory and college-level courses, our students experience the excitement of self-directed learning.

Beacon also incorporates small group classes to provide students with opportunities for discussion, debate and collaborative learning. In groups of 2 to 6, students explore a variety of subjects together while still benefiting from the individualized attention and close relationships that distinguish our one-one-one classes. Even in the small group setting, students are encouraged to pursue the subject matter at their own pace; when students require additional acceleration, enrichment or support, assignments are tailored to ensure that they are challenged consistently. Every class is productive and no student is ever unchallenged or left behind. Students and teachers alike enjoy a classroom enlivened by a variety of perspectives. Differing opinions are encouraged and academic debate is a must. Within a small group, students develop skills in listening, patience, argumentation and mediation. Students must intellectually engage with the perspectives of their peers and refine their ability to communicate their own. They are motivated by healthy competition and learn to support their classmates with academic integrity.

Even though classes are small at Beacon, students nonetheless have the opportunity to participate in a substantial, vibrant community. Students of all ages along with teachers and staff coexist in our space, collaborating and learning together. Lunch is divided into a period for Upper School students and a period for Lower and Middle school students. Weekly division-wide meetings, special guest speakers and meal time bring students together in a larger group setting. Upper school students can mentor or assistant teach for students in the younger grades, and, in turn, younger students look up to the older students.