Hudson Lab School is a new, independent K-12 school located in Hastings-on-Hudson, NY in Westchester. We will open in Fall 2017 in a single, mixed-age classroom teaching grades K-5. At Hudson Lab School, we integrate collaborative, interdisciplinary project-based learning (PBL) and thoughtful self-reflection with the academic fortitude of a classical liberal arts education. Our teachers guide and support students as "lead learners" in their investigations rather than the person holding all the answers. Located at skilled nursing home Andrus on Hudson, Hudson Lab School incorporates intergenerational learning and takes advantage of the gorgeous gardens and wooded paths directly outside our classroom door. Our mission is to instill a love of learning and to teach children how to design and build a life in which they can thrive.
PROJECT-BASED LEARNING
Project-based learning prepares students to frame and solve real-world problems and issues through age-appropriate exploration. Projects begin with a meaningful question or problem that students work to solve or answer using a multi-step process. Projects require students to utilize multiple learning techniques, including core skills like reading, writing and math as well as research, logical deduction and other 21st century skills. Projects come in all sizes: Some are individual but many are too large and complex for one student to do alone. As a result, project-based learning often encourages teamwork.
21ST CENTURY SKILLS
- Personal and social responsibility
- Self reliance, understanding and grit
- Planning, critical thinking, reasoning, and creativity
- Iterative learning (trial and error)
- Strong communication skills (both interpersonal and presentation)
- Cross-cultural understanding and community involvement
- Visualizing and decision making
- Knowing how and when to use technology and choosing the most appropriate tool for the task
