Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

How to Design a Project-Based Learning Classrooms for New York Private Schools

Traditional New York classrooms tend to fit a specific mold where students face the front of the room while teachers lecture. Students take notes, finish homework, and hope to memorize loads of information just long enough to pass a test. The traditional system does not accommodate all learning styles, and passion and engagement are often in short supply among students and lecturers. Add project based learning to the equation. Rather than reciting facts and hoping they stick, teachers provide students the resources they need to look for context and real-world applications. Teachers expect students to make mistakes and learn from them. As a result, Students become active instead of passive learners.

What is PBL: Project-Based Learning Explained 

Today, project-based learning (PBL) is making a buzz in the education world. Many people consider an alternative to passive and rote learning. Analogy-wise, if traditional education is classical music, PBL is jazz. In a PBL setting, instead of short-term memorization strategies, teachers allow students to develop knowledge and skills by presenting them challenges and problems to solve together.  Students work in groups while teachers guide them to find the information they need to plan their projects. Lecturers encourage each learner to find ideas and answers to their questions from different sources.  

An example of project-based learning in action is a science-based project where students visit a zoo to learn about animal habitats and form opinions on which home best suits each animal. In this project is the team collaborates to develop a research-supported habitat plan for presentation to zookeepers, local zoology students, and professional zoologists. They explore their local environment and describe conditions within a habitat that are beneficial or hazardous for living things. 

Project-based learning requires students to think and act like professionals in their respective fields. When professionals fail to execute their job correctly, they suffer consequences. Students can thrive in the same authentic environments where they do much more than pretend.

4 Rules for Designing a PBL Classroom

Often, traditional learning never ventures beyond the realm of the academic. Project-based learning connects students to the real world and prepares them to accept challenges as a matter of course. Of course, a great deal of planning, a healthy dose of flexibility, and a learning environment that supports collaboration are necessary for a successful PBL classroom. Here are four must-follow rules for designing a productive PBL setting:

  • Learning Spaces Set the Tone

One key characteristic of a PBL environment is attention to group work where students encourage each other, solve problems with their peers, and develop critical thinking and decision-making skills. This means that teachers should organize the learning environment in a way that supports cooperation and collaboration. Teachers need a central location where all students can gather to hear lessons, but there should be dedicated space for groups to work together.

  • You Don’t Have to be the Ultimate Resource

Perhaps the key element of a PBL classroom is its teacher. Unlike the traditional learning environment where the teachers follow a detailed curriculum, PBL classrooms can be unpredictable and student-guided. Even if teachers often feel like spectators, they have to be flexible, supportive, and engaged in the learning process. 

  • Utilize the Technology with a Purpose

PBL learning environments use educational technology to help students develop real-world skills and use video-editing and presentation software to organize information and transmit ideas. However, technology can become a distraction, so teachers should monitor Internet use and guide the students in the use of technology to achieve project goals.

  • Think Information Access

In PBL, students need access to chalk or whiteboards, reference books, and art supplies. Young children are often tactile learners, so it helps to divide the room into subject-themed areas that display learning materials and other supplies. However, since PBL is unpredictable and student-guided, parents must understand that it is important to keep learning materials to support rather than limit creativity.

All students, no matter what their background or where they live, deserve access to high-quality education. Make your children creators-- their futures depend on it. Equip your children to become problem solvers, game-changers, and critical thinkers at Hudson Lab School! If you want to know more about project-based learning in private schools in New York, check out our website today or call us at (914) 775-7058 for more details.


Read More
Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

Searching for an After-School Tech Program in Hastings-on-Hudson?

Learning should begin at a young age. A lot of things can be learned outside the classroom. It may come from nature, books, and even friends. We can never force a child to follow a particular career path when they grow up. They can strive to become scientists, engineers, or even educators. Tech programs are considered a viable way to ensure the development of your child.

Your child’s future depends on how they would perceive the world they are in. Natural occurrences, such as daily life and struggles, are taught as basic life skills in a tech program. This ensures the proper knowledge that your child must possess. Programs such as these can make your child ready and give them a secure foundation in life.

Satisfying the Learning Needs of your Child

Every child loves to play. Playing is something worth looking at when you have the need to learn. Kids’ curiosity on how the world works naturally leads to creativity. In this manner, kids can fill up their insatiable appetite to learn. At Hudson Lab School, we engage the students’ curiosities about the world by inspiring them to learn. We utilize project-based learning for our students, providing them with the necessities to become great leaders.

Hudson Lab School Tech program focuses on the empowerment of our students. Hudson Lab School, according to statistics, is ranked in the top two private schools in Hastings-on-Hudson in New York. Children are taught on various levels — intellectually, socially and physically.

Valuing the Advancements of your Child

Hudson Lab School offers STEM classes for grades K-5. Advancements in designing, building, and programming also develop the skills of the child. These skills are essential and are the root of creativity, communication, critical thinking, and communication. Here are the values we live by at Hudson Lab School.

• Creativity is essential

After-school programs in Hudson Lab School enable your child to explore new ideas. This will ensure the child’s growth in decision making. The critical thinking ability of your child makes the difference between a dull outlook and a colorful one.

• Collaboration and communication is fun

Collaboration with fellow students helps your child achieve things in a group setting. This involves the cooperation of thoughts and ideas. Communication between students is essential for the growth of each child. After-school programs at Hudson Lab School build team motivation and self-confidence in each child.

• Self-awareness and confidence in one’s self

Self-awareness in each individual child is a necessity for growth. This understanding makes your child become mindful of others’ thoughts. When the child knows how they affect others, they become confident in their well-being which informs them of who they want to be.

• Community involvement is key

Participating in the community greatly enhances your child’s learning. At Hudson Lab School, we facilitate your child’s growth by teaching mindfulness and respect for others. With this, your child gains ever more knowledge of how the world works.

• Engage in hard work

Success comes through hard work. It is essential for children to work to pursue their dreams. This will provide a stable foundation for your child’s development at Hudson Lab School.

The After-School Tech Program offered by Hudson Lab School brings out the best in your child through myriad ways. The program enhances your child’s creativity. Creativity gives your child the ability to create new ways of solving problems and situations. Secondly, the program gives your child a better understanding of his or herself. This is done by letting them know what they really want to be and how will they get there. Third, your child will be more knowledgeable about the community in which he or she is in. The respect and confidence needed for everyday life are made known to them.

Let your child explore the world. Never put them in a situation they don’t want to be. Let them strive for something they want to have in life. The struggles will come, but only through facing those struggles can your child gain a clear understanding of how to face them.

Let us make a difference in your child’s life. Enroll your child in the After-School Tech Programs at Hudson Lab School in Hastings-on-Hudson. For more information, call (914) 775-7058 for more details.


Read More
Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

Project-Based Learning in Hastings-on-Hudson: Is It an Option to Consider?

Education is a must. The learning your child gets from school makes them what they are in the future. Learning is an important part in the development of your child. This development is shown over time by progress. Learning from direct experience can be more effective if combined with reflection and will help your child relate the skills that have learned to problems they face in the world.

Learning should begin at a young age. Natural occurrences in daily life can be a struggle for children if they are not educated properly. Learning happens on a day-to-day basis even when it does not happen in a classroom. Education may come from anywhere, anytime, and anyone. Valuable lessons can be picked up throughout your child’s life without lifting a single book. Project-based learning accommodates learning strategies uncommon in today’s society.  

What Is Project-Based Learning?

Project-based learning lies in the basis of exploring and wondering about the outside world. The child makes creative decisions to overcome struggles. When project-based learning is undertaken, the child is subject to an array of learning strategies that contribute as a channel for them to express themselves. Also, project-based learning programs are considered a reliable way to ensure the development of your child.

Project-based learning involves discrete projects. It relies on multi-step problem solving which encourages the child’s mental ability to develop. The growth comes from multiple learning techniques, such as logical deduction, research, and trial and error. Project-based learning strategies focus on the empowerment of a student. Rather than putting all the focus on school readiness, we assist each student in building life skills to change, adapt, and develop into the person he or she aims to grow up into.

Hudson Lab School and the Basis of Project-Based Learning

Hudson Lab School’s project-based learning engages students in a method to develop cognitive learning. Personalized learning is the basis where we, at Hudson Lab, understand and communicate with individuals. Our learning procedure encompasses different goals for your child.

• Academic fortitude

Hudson Lab School relies on primary learning standards. It focuses on your child’s motivation to learn. Reading, writing, and math are taught in compact but active groups based on each individual’s skill level.

• Project-based learning

This is the foundation on which we connect with students. Diversity and innovative thinking are essential to the learning process for the child. Students are driven to learn by participating in crucial decision making and answering questions. Project-based learning makes the student strive for more. Motivation comes from challenges and reflection. This helps the student solidify their learning and develop a communication process with one’s self.

• Place-based education

We not only teach our students at Hudson Lab through project-based education but also through place-based education. This type of strategy uses the outside world as a learning platform for them. Each individual comes with different skillsets.

• Self-understanding

When our students at Hudson Lab School learn, they do not only learn about what is outside but also who they are on the inside. We value self-awareness as a way to connect with others. The integration of social learning makes each student accept who they are and who they want to become.

To sum it all up, Hudson Lab School is not a traditional school that uses traditional learning techniques. We utilize the ability of each student to make their own decisions to solve problems and tasks. We adapt to lessons to students based on their needs, the best approach to learning, and their interest. Dynamic groups make it possible for your child to have in-depth discussions and brainstorm with other kids.

Let your child learn through the outside world. Let them strive for something they want to have in life. The knowledge they will possess will help them overcome challenges in the future. And with the confidence gained through those experiences, they will more easily be able to attend to their future needs.

If you want to enroll your child in our program, please see these schedules provided or contact us at (914) 775-7058 for more details.

• Thursday Classes from 3:30 – 6:00 pm. Class dates are March 7, 14, 28; April 4, 11, 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; and June 6

• Friday Classes from 3:30 – 6:00 pm. Class dates are March 1, 8, 22, 29; April 5, 12, 26; May 3, 10, 17, 31; and June 7.

Read More
Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

After-school K-5 Robotics Classes In Westchester County

It’s only normal for children to express their interest in a lot of things at a young age. Thus, as a parent, it makes sense to give them a variety of choices. Introducing kids to new technology is a great way to trigger their interest and creativity. Enrolling them in an after school robotics class in Westchester County will expose K-5 children to a lot of possibilities and allow them to expand their horizons. Exposing young kids to fun, hands-on activities with technology is a great way to spark interests that can last a lifetime and expose their natural strengths and endless potential.

After-school classes in math, robotics, and coding help develop early problem solving skills and creativity. They offer boys and girls a chance to create things from their imagination. Along with that, these activities enhance social skills from communicating and socializing in groups while expanding their critical thinking limits. If you happen to live in Westchester County, the after school technology classes are a great chance to make the most out of the gradeschool years

Hudson Lab School's after school robotics for Grades K-5 will push your children to their full potential.

  • All materials are provided.

  • Instructor Dmitry Kupov teachers kids about the basics of robotics, mechanical engineering, and physics through live, hands-on experiments.

  • Mathematics is used to predict results.

  • Projects are structured around math problems that kids solve through programming robots and creating new kind of technology.

  • Children develop social and leadership skills while creating bonds with others.

  • Children develop public speaking skills as they introduce their successfully-made projects, explain their features, and demonstrate how they work.

  • Children learn how technology can contribute to society and people's well-being.

Hudson Lab School is very happy to announce that classes will be available with Thursday and Friday sessions.

The Thursday class will start on January 17 and last until June 6. That session will meet a total of 19 times in six months.

Friday classes will start on January 18 and will end on June 7. They will meet 17 times. Classes run from 3:30-6:00 pm.

To enroll your child in after-school robotics classes, go to https://www.hudsonlabschool.com/afterschool/.

Read More
Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

How Does K-12 Program Work In A Project-based Learning School In Westchester County?

It has always been said that kids hold the future. Thus, providing them the education that would give out the best in them is definitely every parent’s responsibility. Classroom-based education is still a trend in local schools. However, it’s a good thing that there are some schools who are trying to break this tradition for good. Policy makers and educationists are starting to see the great potential of project-based learning especially in K-12 programs in Westchester County, New York.

Every parent knows that it is critically important for every child to have a great introduction when it comes to developing the basics of knowledge.  Children must be able to focus on expanding their heir problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Choosing the school program and curriculum for your child would be definitely hard.

The K-12 Curriculum

K-12 programs or basically known as elementary-middle school curriculum started in 2007 in the United States particularly, in some parts of New York such as Westchester County. It was an attempt to improve the education system and improve the academic performance of each child. Having all the students from pre-K to elementary school K-5/6, up to high school, all in one environment allows them to focus on their studies. However, considering the fast-changing world, do you think that a school with a K-12 program which uses traditional classroom-based education is what your kids need?

On Focus: Project-based Learning

The combination of project-based learning and K-8 programs sounds definitely enticing. This kind of learning approach integrates the child’s capability to do and think what they think is right in the most natural way using projects and actual activities. Our current world is congested with complex problems and letting children undergo through project-based learning program is like training them for the future.

Through using projects, students are given the chance to think by their own and with proper guidance, they are led to desirable results. Each project is made to help children in:

  • Discovering their physical knowledge and develop them in the most natural way.

  • Making the most of technology. Project-based learning uses a modern approach on how every child can excel in their field of interest.

  • Developing every individual’s problem-solving skills. Children undergo through different stages of problem-solving that allow them to enhance their ability to observe, research, survey, report, communicate, investigate, collaborate, socialize, present and act as a leader.

  • Choosing their field of interests. Complex world problems continue to arise but a single individual is not required to solve it all. Project-based learning helps every child to find and focus on their chosen field. Projects will vary based on the child’s interest only and

  • Upgrade the child’s creativity. Each project is given based on real-world situations to catch and provoke the children’s creativity up to its limits.

Project-based learning had a lot more benefits than we could think of. With the use of different projects and approach for each child, they are given a chance to bloom in their own ways. If you are interested in enrolling your child on school which offers a K-8 program and state-of-the-art project-based learning curriculum, Hudson Lab School is one click away: https://www.hudsonlabschool.com/


Read More
Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

The Advantages Brought by Project Based Learning in Westchester Country

Westchester County is one of the most populous counties of New York. According to the census, this county is home to 949,113 people. Despite its significant population, the- county still give enough attention to their education system.  Their schools belong to the list of the best not only in New York but in the whole country. Based on registration, 28 out of the top 100 school districts in New York are in Westchester County. One of these best schools is the Hudson Lab School, which offers a Project-Based Learning system in Westchester County. This educational approach allows students to develop their skills at a young age, preparing them well for the future.

What Makes Project Based Learning One of the Best Options for your Child?

When we are talking about the preparation for the next generation, education is our first concern. In our modern society, traditional learning is now a challenge since we are in a world where complexity in society and our lives take place. Experts have now developed a learning system where they can catch the attention and open the eyes of the students.

Project-based learning is a new method that focuses on improving problem-solving skills as well as critical thinking. It is an inquiry-based process where one student must learn how to solve a problem using a practical and active style of learning.

This project consists of resources, the scope of work, and the students are given the responsibility and trust to perform their methods. In our world where complexity is present, allowing kids to make their judgment and decision are some of the best ways to prepare them for the real problems in the world.

Top reasons why every parent must consider embracing this project-based learning method:

1. It determines the actual knowledge of the student

This method allows the students to show their understanding because of the longer length of experience in learning to compare to the traditional classroom approach.

2. Preparing the children to solve real-life problems

Project-based learning enables the student to face the real issues through their projects which are based mostly on real-life problems.

3. Interpersonal skills development

This method has a significant impact on a child’s interpersonal skills. Assigned projects are more difficult compared to the activities given in a traditional classroom environment. The students are required to exert more effort and creativity in doing their assignments. They are also provided with the initiative to analyze everything, and to prepare their reports and findings. In the different project’s stages, they develop their communication skills essential in collaborating with other people.

4. Creativity and Concept Improvement

This method allows a greater understanding of the subject compared to the traditional one which then results to the higher level of student’s creative development. The learning approach in this method proved to be more effective to catch the attention and get their interest to improve the thinking level required in applying new knowledge in solving a problem.

5. Scope

It is one of the best reasons why we should go for this method. It is because this method enables the learner to adapt and learn the structures within the project rather than the lecture and writing-reading assignments used in the traditional-based learning.

Be future ready! Try Hudson Lab School now!

Nowadays, it is more effective to give the students a project rather than letting them sit in their class. This system enables them to learn on their own, go out on their own and allow them to understand the topic firsthand. If you want to try it now, contact Hudson Lab School today!


Read More
Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

Choosing the Best Private School for your Child in Westchester County

Westchester County is renowned for the high quality of education. The learning institutions focus on the alternative learning system which makes them as one of the top-tier school districts in New York and in the United States. One of the schools with high-quality education on the list is the Hudson Lab School, a Private School in Westchester County. This school created a new way of learning and an environment that focuses on the needs of the students, especially in this more complex society.

As a parent, we want nothing but the best things for our child. Choosing the best school suited for your child’s need is surely a choice you don’t want to be wrong. On the other hand, there are parents who are still clueless when it comes to choosing the school for their kids.

Here are some of the best reasons why you should choose Hudson Lab School in preparing your child’s future:

1. Dedicated Teachers

Our teachers are passionate and qualified about the topics and subjects and holding a higher degree in their own field. You children will surely develop a stronger relationship with the teachers who also serve as their role model.

2. Safe Learning Environment

We have the reputation of keeping the high standard for respect and discipline in Hudson Lab School. As much as possible we allow the lower teacher-to-student ratio to have a more secure and effective control of the children and the school grounds as well.

3. Extracurricular Activities

We encourage the participation of your kids in the extracurricular activities which includes the arts, music, sports and different clubs. Their involvement helps your child in their studies to become more motivated to learn and focus. These extracurricular activities also serve as their break in the stresses of their academic subjects while improving their skills and taking their part in an important social situation.

4. Enriched Academic Aspect

One of the benefits that we can impart to your child’s future is to provide an exceptional way in developing your child’s skills. Most of our students have high scores on standardized tests as well as the college entrance examination. Our enriched academic subjects allow the students to gain more knowledge that goes along in pursuing their future career.

5. Parental Involvement

We believe that the family is considered as one of the most important factors in student learning. That’s why we come up to the idea of involving the parents in some of our activities. Parents and children are both benefactors of this method. The parents will become more committed to their kid’s school and the students have a higher tendency of higher grades and higher self-esteem.

The parental involvement highly depends on you and the time you can give to help out. It also depends on your experiences and talents. All you need to do is to observe and know where you can be fit. In an instance where the school needs a companion for a field trip, then that is your time to show your great team player side.

6. Resources

In our schools, we have different resources enough to support student learning. Our high-quality resources give the students the opportunity to explore their talents and interest in order for them to be future ready.

7. Make your child ready for today and tomorrow’s world

We offer different kinds of specialization making your child ready for tomorrow’s challenges. We are responsible for producing the leaders in society and business. We really focus and think your child’s future that’s why we are supporting them with their interest and talents. We want to make their dreams turn into reality.

Most of the parents are choosing the right school suited for their child’s need which is very important in this ever-changing world. Check out Hudson School Lab today to know why we are the best private school for your kids. Let us help you and your child be future ready by motivating and engaging them in different activities.


Read More
Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

The Innovative Educational System of Private Schools in Yonkers, New York

Situated along the Hudson River, Yonkers is the famous gateway between the Hudson Valley and New York City. It is the fourth largest city in the Big Apple. This thriving community is home to a nice mix of residential and commercial establishments. However, in the last decade, one of the most notable developments in this city is its educational system. As educators and learning institutes work together to enhance the traditional methods of teachings, more and more private schools keen to introduce project-based learning appear in the area. Among these institutes is the Hudson Lab School which aims to raise kids ready and confident to face their future.

How do private schools in Yonkers implement the modern method of teaching?

While there is no doubt that the traditional method of teaching the younger generation of today is still critical to developing academic skills, project-based learning proved to be a tough comparison. Parents in Yonkers have seen the positive effects, and this realization led them to enroll their kids in private school which had already adopted the project-based learning system.

Below are the most common principle being practiced at private schools, especially in Hudson Lab School.

Teachers do not punish students for making mistakes.

If a child is fearful of making any mistake, the more likely will he or she avoid thinking outside the limitations. If kids show signs of frustration after experiencing failures, they will be encouraged to ponder on their mistakes and to view it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Instead of calling him off for his mishaps, the teachers will find helpful activities that can help them find the lesson from the negative experience.

Being messy in activities is a sign of creativity.

Before, teachers avoid creative activities thinking that the kids will make the classroom messy. In project-based learning, kids are free to use the whole place and all the available resources until a task is done. Gradually, the teachers will encourage the students to clean up the mess, happy and satisfied from the day’s accomplishment.

Project-based learning encourages independent thinking.

Too often, parents are reluctant to trust their kids thinking that they are still young enough. At Hudson Lab, we allow the students to learn life skills. Although washing the dishes or cleaning the garden seemed to be absurd tasks, the discipline, and feeling of contentment that your kid gets knowing they’ve been entrusted small tasks to do is a great way to level them up for more significant responsibilities.


Since the inception of private schools in Yonkers, project-based learning spread like wildfire. More and more youth become committed to their goals and dreams in life. Having educators who aspire them to achieve their highest potential without the need to lock them up in a room and make them memorize a whole book is something that must be nurtured for long.


Read More
Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

Project-based Learning in Yonkers, NY: A Groundbreaking Educational Move

Yonkers is the state’s fourth largest district and is one of the so-called “Big Five” school systems, among New York City, Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse. It operates as a branch of local government with no taxing authority; each district relies on a city, state and federal aid for funding. With such limited resources, it is essential that the students’ learning time be maximized to the fullest.

Project-based learning is a teaching method wherein students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging and complicated question, problem, or challenge.

What are the advantages of Project Based Learning?

To complete projects, students interact with other students. Seniors are compelled to teach their juniors, achieving mutual learning. Because of this, teachers could spend less time teaching individuals; an advantage especially for institutions like Yonkers’ who struggle with resources. For this setup, teachers only need to cater to students for questions and the grading of their final output.

Furthermore, this method prepares students better for work. Whether they finished a project with a passed or failed remark, a valuable lesson would be learned. Not only on the subject that they are into, but also real-life lessons they get from the people they work with and the project they are working on. Engaging in these activities rather than sticking to the outdated education system exposes them to the reality of adulthood, thus, preparing them better for it.

Project-based testing could also be an addition to this package. Testing through project completion is better than the old school style of repetitive quizzes and exams.

Why does Yonkers need to adopt this teaching method?

Yonkers is a large district that caters 26,000 students and is currently struggling to educate its continually increasing population. To address this issue and to stop further deterioration of its current education system, it calls for a better teaching strategy, hence, the project-based learning.

With that number of a population, interactive learning could help them in a way that they teach one another. Teachers would also have lesser time to attend to each one of them and allot the time to guide them as a group instead. This method could also help provide the students the minimum level of art, music or physical education instruction required by the state.

The struggles that they are facing could be converted into an asset if the project-based learning is applied strategically. In their situation, the students could be compelled to help each other more. Sticking to classroom learning alone would be inconvenient with that ratio of population and resources.  Learning in that awkward environment is somewhat unfulfilling.

Not only in Yonkers, but Project-Based Learning can also apply to other education systems. It supports deeper learning for the students. The interactive project completions will give them the chance to acquire knowledge from a variety of resources, not from one teacher only. For Yonkers’ current scarcity, project-based learning is a good alternative.


Read More
Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

Hudson Lab School: A Go-to K-12 Independent School in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York

Over the last two decades, there has been a dramatic shift in the way schools offer their prepackaged curriculum in the United States. Both in rural and urban areas, the number of educational institutions embracing the K-12 principle are steadily on the rise. As the world is becoming dynamic and more competitive, parents and educators are beginning to grasp the importance of redefining the way they view the elementary years.

This period is vital to the building blocks of learning, and the students’ capacity must never be assumed. Instead, their skills must be developed, practiced and mastered in preparation for their high school years. With this objective in mind, Hudson Lab School, a K-12 independent school in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York, created an environment and a system of instruction that addresses the developmental needs of the students during these critical years.

The Solution to the Weak Link of Education

Perhaps everyone you would meet will tell you that the schools they have attended were perfect. It doesn’t matter whether they came from a less traditional institution or an old-fashioned junior high, ask them the best approach to learning, and you will hear about how their experiences. Unfortunately, research shows otherwise. Middle schools tell a different story. According to researchers and educators, students often find the transition during these years difficult. From low test scores to absenteeism and behavioral problems, educators named middle schools as the weak link of the educational system. As a result, more and more educational institutions are giving efforts to reconfigure the conventional method of teaching.

Top Benefits of Attending a K-12 Private School

K-12 students acquire excellent academic achievement.

The K-12 principle is a great solution to cut down the number of transition a student has to make during the formative years. Researchers have found out that students attending K-12 private schools gain higher than standardized scores, especially in Math. They also pose higher point averages. Students enjoy learning in a school that has a strong curriculum and delivers a consistent approach to their education for nine consecutive years.

K-12 students find it easier to develop their participation and leadership skills.

As the students feel safer in a K-12 environment, they tend to participate in extracurricular activities even more. Researchers have found out the transition from elementary to middle school causes motivational declines which ultimately leads to bullying or lack of interest. In an environment where they can enjoy continuity, students find it enjoyable to cooperate with one another and to feel the sense of community. This way, they are learning the value of teamwork and discipline while at the same time enhancing their leadership skills.

A K-12 private school eliminates most of the educational distractions.

The cross-grade community eliminates the feeling of being caught in the middle. Most of the time, older students feel inspired to become role models for younger students. On the other hand, the younger children experience growth in a small community.

Aside from their teachers, they see mentors that help them develop maturity over time. The cross-grade relationship helps students develop a sense of responsibility and blocks out negative influences from the outside such as drug use or other distractions that may steer their education goals. A K-12 private school provides an environment with a kind of intimacy resulting in increased happiness and success.

Enroll your Kids to Hudson Lab School Today!

While the K-12 educational principle maybe considered a trend, various studies and assessments have shown incredible changes in the way students handle their education. If you’re looking for a K-12 private school in Hastings-on-Hudson, check out Hudson Lab School today. Let us help your kid get motivated and engaged from early stage and beyond.  


Read More
Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift Project-based Learning Robin Friend Stift

Project Based Learning: Let Your Kids Learn While Having Fun in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York

Do you dream of a world where every child moves with confidence and purpose? Today, the old-school method of letting children know the facts and then recite them out of context is no longer enough to prepare them for real-life challenges. As our environment becomes increasingly dynamic and competitive with each passing year, both parents and educators see project-based learning as one of the best ways to prepare the kids to survive in today’s world. As an adage goes, "Do not prepare the road for your kids. Instead, develop your kids for the road." With this purpose in mind, Hudson Lab School in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York introduces real-life context to our curriculum through project-based learning.

How to Inspire and Motivate the Kids of Today

As a parent who dreams big for your child, you would surely be delighted to know more about the power of project-based learning. This non-traditional approach to education aims to discover and enhance kids’ hidden talents. The methods seek to prepare students at the earliest age possible and let them know what they need to be able to solve real-life problems and of course, to succeed.

The Difference between Project-based Learning and Traditional School Curriculum

There are still many schools in Hastings-on-Hudson that stick to the conventional way of teaching. Perhaps consider this example.

The conventional teaching method provides Physics students the formula for motion where it is used to solve an equation without hands-on intervention. In project-based learning using research, experimentation, they would have to find out the formula and then create a system that will allow them to learn the fundamentals of motion.

The Top Benefits of Project-based Learning for Students

Project-based learning revolves around discrete projects. It involves complex questions and multi-step problems which encourage the students to develop multiple learning techniques such as trial and error method, logical deduction and research. There are also projects that are too complex to be solved alone. These activities introduce the value of teamwork, discipline, and cooperation. Instead of keeping students within four walls, project-based learning allows them to connect to communities, help them discover their impact on other people and ultimately encourage their vision on how they can make a change.

A Balanced Approach to Academic Situations and the Real World

There’s no doubt that testing will remain a prominent part of education for the foreseeable future. However, as a parent, you can do things to stretch your child’s imagination and encourage them to see the world from different angles without stressing them out in a prepackaged curriculum. Project-based learning allows the students to learn academically while at the same time inspiring them to develop their passions and hobbies. The problem-solving techniques and life skills they learn early on can increase their chances of succeeding, whichever way they choose to go.

Empower the Young Generation of Hastings-on-Hudson, New York!

Hudson Lab School aims to inspire children and make them feel positively eager and curious to learn. By creating an environment with the right amount of structure and teaching students using a diverse and balanced approach, we help parents prepare their children for success in the real world.


Read More