Research has shown that students develop better confidence and leadership skills when their learning environment provides social flexibility, academic differentiation, and stronger relationships with teachers and peers. For that reason, multi-grade classrooms have been part of our educational model since our inception in 1988.
Aurora’s Lower School features combined-grade classrooms: K/1, 2/3, and 4/5 students share learning spaces and have the same teacher for two years. In Middle School, students are part of a team of guides who work with them across multiple subjects. While some subjects are taught by grade level, the curriculum is designed to rotate, ensuring that content is not repeated across years.
Leadership Through MentorshipÂ
There are many advantages to multi-grade classrooms. Older students are given the opportunity to learn mentorship and empathy. They learn to see the world from someone else's perspective, and our younger students serve as mentors the following year. This mentorship strengthens communication skills and helps build confidence.
Studies show that students who mentor their peers achieve higher academic performance. They retain information more effectively and develop a stronger sense of responsibility. Teachers can group students by interests and abilities, rather than just age, fostering greater creativity and problem-solving as students collaborate and learn from one another.
The emotional intelligence that results is key to developing compassionate, well-rounded individuals.
Fostering Cooperation Across Age Groups
At Aurora, we foster opportunities for students of all ages to connect and learn from one another. Through our Partner Pals program, students in K-5 are paired with different-aged peers for monthly activities. Additionally, our Middle School students lead clubs for grades 2-5, exploring interests like debate, art, books, games, and sports. This peer-to-peer learning promotes teamwork, encourages respect for diverse viewpoints, and strengthens a sense of community across the school, helping students build essential skills for both academic and life success.
Empathy and Emotional Growth Through Mixed-Age Learning
The connections formed in Aurora's multi-grade classrooms go beyond academics. By looping with the same teacher for multiple years, they build deep relationships that create a safe and supportive environment. This consistency fosters emotional growth as students feel more confident in their surroundings. The benefits of looping have been praised by The New York Times, US News & World Report, and The Institute of Education Sciences. Older students develop empathy and self confidence by leading their younger classmates.
Why Aurora School Stands Out
Aurora School's multi-grade approach combines academic rigor with Social-Emotional Learning (SEL), fostering students' intellectual and emotional growth. Small class sizes ensure that students receive individualized attention. SEL is integrated into every aspect of Aurora's curriculum, helping to equip students with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of school and life.
Parents who want a holistic school should consider Aurora School. It offers a unique, transformative experience. It teaches leadership, cooperation, and empathy daily. The multi-grade approach, combined with academic rigor and social-emotional learning, ensures that students experience growth in their intellectual and emotional capacities, preparing them for lifelong success.
Experience the Aurora Difference
Aurora School is dedicated to nurturing the whole child through our innovative mixed-age classrooms. Leadership, cooperation, and empathy are at the core of our educational model, setting our students up for lifelong success. We invite families to schedule a tour today to get to know Aurora!