What is A.S.P.I.R.E.
The foundation of A.S.P.I.R.E is built on Biblical Principles. Each of our key concepts is supported by scripture. Definitions of concepts:
A-Academics (Proverbs 2:10)
At A.S.P.I.R.E., while we create an environment that is fun and play-based, we also want to create a challenging environment in which the children are encouraged to thrive academically. Without inflicting a sense of “pressure” to learn, children will enjoy their time here at A.S.P.I.R.E., while acquiring basic knowledge of ABC’s, number reasoning, shapes, colors, and more. As the children peak into their Pre-Kindergarten year, academic curriculum will become more structured, ensuring that the concepts of California’s Core Standards are taught and comprehended.
S- Self-Esteem (Psalm 139:14)
At A.S.P.I.R.E., we understand that we are all individuals uniquely made in God’s image. We not only accept each other’s differences, we embrace them. It is encouraged that children walk in the confidence and authority that God has given to us, with our heads held high. At A.S.P.I.R.E., it is required that we treat all people and their differences with respect, for each of us is fearfully and wonderfully made.
P-Process of learning (2 Timothy 3:16)
At A.S.P.I.R.E., both our daily activities and curriculum are designed with much thought. We place emphasis not only on the skill being taught to a child, but also on the process they go through while obtaining that skill. For example, if the end goal is writing their name, there are various stages/skills that need to be attained beforehand. Activities such as playdough/clay, scissor work, and beading will be offered to strengthen the finger muscles and fine motor skills needed to properly hold a pencil. These stages are equally important in a child’s process of learning.
I-Inventiveness (1 Kings 3:12)
As stated in the self-esteem section, we believe that we are all uniquely made, and that God has yet to make any one in the world like you, nor will he in the future. No one looks just like you, acts just like you, or thinks just like you. At A.S.P.I.R.E., we embrace that and encourage children to showcase their individuality in their work. Be creative, be original, be inventive!
R-Responsibility (Galatians 6:5)
At A.S.P.I.R.E., we teach children that we all play a part in creating our fun and safe environment. As much as it is my school, it is theirs as well, and we need to all contribute to making it the best it can be. This is a concept we hope will carry over to their understandings and beliefs about the world as a whole. At A.S.P.I.R.E., children receive weekly jobs such as line leader, story picker, light switcher, and meteorologist, to help them gain an understanding and appreciation of their role and importance in the school.
E-Exploration (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
At A.S.P.I.R.E., we encourage children to “discover” the world around them. By using their minds AND their hands, they can explore objects and come to conclusions on their own about what will happen “IF.” We do not want children to be afraid to check out their environment, but through hands-on explorations, discover how things work.