Reflections on PSII

I thought the whole model of the Pacific School of Innovation and Inquiry was very interesting! The concept of having multiple spaces allows for more depth of certain areas, and I like how all the students have their specific inquiries. The environment with the lighting, the open seating, the shared spaces, and the classrooms were inviting, and I like how that caters to anyone, but especially neurodivergent people. The idea of having only eleven teachers for the school makes me wonder if they are personally over-extended or if they collaborate in a way that allows for the most effective teaching. I know that there’s been two educators teaching one/two classes which intrigues me because I’m curious about the flow of the class.

At the Pacific School of Innovation and Inquiry — Photo taken on Rachael Ho’s iPhone

Their core values intrigue me in being competency-based, because the learners aren’t focused on performance; rather, they want to progress and have the opportunity to discover more about their interests. When they highlight “Co-construction,” it resonates with me that the adult figures in the school are humanized and creates a less hierarchal power dynamic. I also like the idea of having a sign out sheet, where students are trusted to come back, but are given the agency to spend their lunches how they want.