Child-Centered Learning Models at San Antonio Schools

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[Hall Monitor] The McNeels Choose a School, Part 3: Why We Love Montessori So Much | San Antonio Charter Moms

Would a school of choice with a child-centered learning model be the right fit for your children? In this guide for parents and caregivers, we will explain more about what it means for a school to have a child-centered learning model and give examples of schools in San Antonio that offer variants of this model, such as Montessori, project-based learning, and inquiry-based learning. Our goal is to help you understand the range of learning models that are available in schools of choice in San Antonio and enroll your children in high-quality schools that are the right fit for their needs.

What Is Child-Centered Learning?

The term “child-centered learning” is often considered synonymous with Montessori schools. And while Montessori is certainly a popular choice for this style of learning, it is by no means the only choice. At its core, child-centered learning is an environment where children are self-paced, moving through the material at their own speed. As a result, it is not uncommon to find mixed-age classrooms in these types of models. These schools typically incorporate many visual and tactile learning elements including math manipulatives like blocks or beads on wires. Depending on the school, you may find a focus on art, or in some cases, a holistic approach that encourages physical activity and mental wellness components.

Often these schools focus on integrating bigger concepts like compassion, sustainability, and awareness of social issues. They teach them how to be good global citizens.

Acton Academy North San Antonio nature sourdough

San Antonio Public Schools That Offer Child-Centered Learning

In San Antonio, families can choose child-centered learning at several open enrollment public charter schools and in-district charter schools. These are tuition-free, public schools that are open to all students in a wide enrollment area, as we explain in our guide to school models.

Advanced Learning Academy (ALA) is a PK–12 school that offers project-based learning. It’s part of the CAST Schools network and is a partnership school with SAISD.

Anne Frank Inspire Academy follows an inquiry-based learning model. Students get excited about learning because they are working to answer questions that they came up with themselves. The inquiry-based learning process has structure to ensure that students are challenging themselves and growing.

The Gathering Place offers hands-on learning, outdoor enrichment, and arts education.

Promesa Academy is a school that is committed to creating a space where all communities are celebrated and where every child feels valued and included.

Steele Montessori and Rodriguez Montessori are SAISD Choice Schools that offer Montessori education at tuition-free public schools. Rodriguez Montessori also offers dual language education.

TriPoint Academy is a tuition-free public micro school where students connect their learning to a variety of learning experiences through art, service learning, and connection to nature.

Marvelously Made school classroom

Child-Centered Learning in Other Education Settings

Child-centered learning is available in other education settings, including private schools and early childhood education centers. Learn more by reading these blog posts on our site:

Also, families can choose to homeschool using a child-centered learning model. Pathways Home Education and Beyond Education can assist families with setting up their homeschool environments.

Identifying child-centered learning as a desired learning model is an important step in your school search. As a parent or caregiver who is researching schools for your children, the range of options can be overwhelming. Remember that you know your children better than anyone else. As you develop an understanding of different learning models, you can narrow the field to the ones where your child will likely be their happiest and most successful. Visiting School Discovery Day events is a great way for parents to meet with representatives from multiple schools in one day, ask questions, and get a feel for the school’s climate and culture. The San Antonio Charter Moms team wants to make it as easy as possible to find the right school for your child as easy as possible. We have a wealth of resources, including our Facebook discussion group, interviews with schools, and a weekly newsletter, to help you make the best choice.

Learning Models Handout

Download or print our learning models information as a one-page handout. The text is in English on one side and in Spanish on the other.

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Read More About Child-Centered Learning Models

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