Philosophy of Education
Learning in community is an important value at Dock, represented by the understanding that a "classroom is a community of learners" and reflected in the school curriculum.
Learning in Community
Fostering a positive school climate and culture for learning is of utmost importance. Dock’s dedicated teachers are known for being patient and kind, and frequently going outside of the rubric to provide a personalized approach to learning.
Given the small class sizes, teachers at Dock inherently take on the role of mentor, always willing to give guidance and additional support where needed. All of Dock’s educators use teaching techniques that build a healthy community, emphasize character building, and encourage a higher standard of behavior.
Dock Mennonite Academy
Key Ideas from Dock’s Philosophy of Education
- Faith and learning are inseparable. Therefore, our educational philosophy is rooted in our faith belief.
- All of life is a classroom; persons learn in and out of school and throughout their lives.
- The classroom is a community of learners whose varied gifts and needs are best nurtured through active participation and collaboration.
- Each teacher’s and student’s prior knowledge, experience, and interests become resources available to the whole group.
- Inquiry-based and collaborative activities provide opportunities for students to learn from each other as well as from the teacher and to learn the value of differences.
- When faith and learning are unified, persons are called to an ethic of care and love whereby they seek understanding, find their identity in God’s story of humanity, develop interest in maintaining God’s creation, and grow in love of God and each other.
Transformational
This is the word Dock staff use to describe the impact of professional development related to Restorative Justice in Education.
RJE is about creating learning environments in which educators and students share power to create and maintain equitable and just communities.
A Foundation for Our Family
"Dock has been a foundational institution for our family for a decade, an experience that has given each of us deep friendships, opportunities for meaningful service, and rich spiritual encouragement. At both campuses our girls have been nurtured by teachers who are invested in their complete wellbeing, enabling them to challenge academic boundaries, as well as develop leadership and communication skills."
- Sharon Muhlfeld, EC-8 and HS Parent
