"Learning without Limits" to begin at St. Martin of Tours Parish School

St. Martin of Tours Parish School will transition to a Multi-Age classroom teaching model, "Learning without Limits," with the start of the 2010-2011 school year.

"Learning without Limits" is a multi-age approach to teaching and learning that provides students with expanded opportunities to engage in meaningful activities appropriate to the students' interests and strengths. This creates a close community of teaching and learning.

Students are intentionally combined in smaller learning teams in order to maximize academic and social benefits. They will spend two years in one classroom working with teachers who know their strengths and challenges well. The curriculum is not divided into separate grade levels. Instead, the teachers consider the class as a whole diverse group of learners. At the end of a school year, the older group of students move to the next multi-age classroom and a younger group of students moves up to join the students remaining in the classroom.

Students involved in the "Learning without Limits" teaching model peform as well or better than those in traditional "grade" groups on standardized tests. They regularly reflect on their progress, growth, and learning, often leading to a more positive attitude about school. This encourages better communication between parents, teachers and students and increased parental involvement.

Active assessments, such as portfolios, exhibits, presentations, demonstrations and Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) testing will be used continually throughout the school year to evaluate student progress and adjust learning teams, if necessary. Traditional grades will continue to be administered on a quarterly basis.

Registrations are currently being accepted for the 2010-2011 school year. For more information or to schedule a tour, please contact the school office at (414) 425-9200. We welcome you to our community!