A student-centered, teacher inspired, community supported K-8 progressive school in the heart of North Bennington.
Our Approach
Students study as members of a multi-age community where an emergent curriculum is driven by the children’s interests and inquiries. This approach is combined with an engaging, progress based academic program.
Reading and writing foundations are taught through an integrated system of phonics, whole language, and individualized attention. With extensive experience and success teaching reading to a range of learners, our younger and middle group teachers are prepared and informed by a number of reading approaches that are individualized to meet each student’s needs and respond to each learner’s strengths.
Math and science concepts are taught via hands-on activities through which children learn to observe, question, calculate, and problem-solve. Using the three acres of school grounds and taking full advantage of the diverse eco-systems in the area, math and science lend themselves as subjects for field trips and discovery in our own backyard.
Weekly instruction in music, art, movement and foreign language is offered through partnerships with area professionals. Southshire students also enjoy regular field trips to the Bennington Recreation Center for swim lessons through a partnership with the school and the Center. Participating students also join the school in the winter for JISP programming at Bromley Mountain, Prospect Mountain, and Riley Rink.
Southshire Community School is approved by the Vermont State Board of Education. Our curriculum meets state standards.
Our mission is to help children to become individuals with critical thinking skills, who value themselves and others as creative contributing members of a community, who see themselves as problem solvers, who love learning for its own sake, and who view learning as a lifelong process.
Our Teachers and Staff Members
An inspired education begins with inspiring teachers. Our 1:9 full-time teacher-to-student ratio provides ample room to support deep learning, investment and engagement in every single student. In addition to our three full time teachers, Southshire also includes a team of support educators, an operations manager, and an engaged parent volunteer group who partner with educators to lead periodic workshops and after school clubs. Our teachers are in close contact with parents, working transparently and hand-in-hand with them to support each student’s goals.
Contact us.
school@southshire.org
(802) 442-4601
Mail: PO Box 865, North Bennington, VT 05257
Physical Address: 24 Bank Street, North Bennington, VT 05257