21st Century Learning

SFT students

Our learning means are derived from the following question:  What are the most effective and efficient ways for our students, in general, and each student, in particular, to achieve the SFT student outcomes (i.e., to master everything they need to know and be able to do to thrive in the 21st century).

We continually identify and utilize the most up-to-date, compelling research, resources, and best practices from the field of education and beyond.

“SFT is good for students because it lets students learn in their own way, making it the best experience possible for getting a good education.”

—Jordan, SFT student

Some Characteristics and Components

  • A student-centered, entrepreneurial, interdisciplinary approach to learning
  • Individualized learning plans for each student
  • Adult mentors for each student throughout his/her years in the school
  • A multitude of educational opportunities allowing for alternative learning paths
  • Recognition and utilization of multiple intelligences and the learning styles and strengths of each student
  • Multi-age groupings of students when appropriate and beneficial
  • Students teaching and learning from each other
  • Innovative, customizable daily and weekly schedules
  • Field trips, community service, and internships valued, encouraged, and built into the schedule
  • Teachers as facilitators, coaches, consultants, role models, and fallible human beings
  • Parent and community member volunteers playing integral, daily roles in school
  • In-house Training and Research Center
  • Relationships with foreign schools including student exchange programs and E-mail/I.M./Skype Pals
  • Student-generated rules of behavior and student-run judicial system
  • Assessments as learning tools, not merely scorecards
  • Meaningful, ongoing assessment of progress toward mastery of student outcomes

“The field trips were well planned, frequent and enjoyable. Over time, the students were given more freedom to explore on our own, which made me feel trusted and respected.”

—David, SFT student

Some Useful Resources