Faq | Uncommonly Awesome Learning Lab

FAQs

What is project-based learning?

Project-based learning is student-centered learning that involves exploration and real-world problem solving. Students at Uncommonly Awesome Learning Lab are taught knowledge and skills through experiments, research, design, and the arts. Students work in teams to collaborate on many projects, developing social and emotional learning skills and learning how to work together to reach a common goal.

Why project-based?

We believe learning should be engaging, accessible, and spark critical thinking skills! Through engaging hands-on projects, students are able to make choices about their learning, solve real-word problems, and develop a deeper understanding of content. Project Based Learning is customizable and asset-based. It allows students to be themselves, think for themselves, and express themselves. Team projects allow students to have structured social time, apply previously learned knowledge, and develop creative problem-solving skills.

How do you accommodate students with learning disabilities?

We use Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in everything we do. Each assignment is designed to be challenging at a just-right level for all learners. We carefully plan lessons and activities to provide multiple options for student choice and to think about access points for students with a range of abilities. We provide accomodations and tools to help make learning accessible for all. Additionally, we provide 1:1 support for students to work on personalized goals. Our schedule has multiple breaks per day, and longer breaks per quarter to avoid burnout and support the mental health of students with anxiety, ADHD, and Autism. Our teachers are trained in multi-sensory techniques to teach reading, writing, and math skills to students with learning disabilities including dyslexia and dysgraphia.

What does daily learning look like for the microschool?

Our model of instruction includes a combination of in-person project-based learning, off-site field trips, and personalized 1 to 1 learning. Students meet together Monday to Friday conducting independent research, participating in group challenges, and exploring new ideas and skills through hands-on activities. We have an extended recess time outdoors and an area for indoor movement and play.

What are your class sizes?

At Uncommonly Awesome Learning Lab, we believe a small teacher-to-student ratio is a key component of personalized learning and student success. Our in-person classes are 1:8 with no more than eight students per class so that every student receives the individualized instruction and attention they need to flourish. Students also recieve weekly 1:1 tutoring and coaching sessions.

What is a 2e learner?

A 2e or twice exceptional learner is someone who is gifted in academic or nonacademic areas and has one or more disability (ex: dyslexia, ADHD, ASD, anxiety, depression, chronic illness).

Do you admit students who are not 2e?

Yes! We offer an inclusive environment so all learners are welcome to apply. We believe every student benefits from individualized learning goals and small, project-based classes.

Do you need an official diagnosis to apply?

Not at all! At Uncommonly Awesome Learning Lab, we welcome all students to apply. Additionally, if you are interested in seeking formal evaluations, we are happy to refer you to our preferred list of local evaluators and support you with the process.

Do you use grades?

Measuring and communicating student progress toward individualized learning goals are integral to our program. We work with each family to create an individualized student learning plan that includes goals, interests, and a personalized plan for documenting progress. As a microschool, we work with parents to complete necessary transcripts to facilitate each student's individual education journey. We will work with you to determine the best fit for your child's needs.

Do you have standardized testing?

At Uncommonly Awesome Learning Lab, we use diagnostic assessment measures to identify strengths, talents, interests, and areas for growth. We use formative assessment measures to measure student progress toward personalized learning goals and provide daily checks for progress toward academic, social, and emotional learning goals. We do not use standardized testing measures that can be stress-inducing for students.