Opportunities for Success

You are given the freedom to explore the curriculum and give it to the children in whatever form is best for the child."

— Ram, Early Elementary teacher

Nine women, seeking an innovative education for children, founded The Orchard School in 1922 as a progressive school. Starting with these nine women and their first students, people have always been the essence of The Orchard School enterprise and its success. Talented, caring teachers interested in each child’s potential – that is the essence of The Orchard School. Consequently, we place a high priority on recruiting, training and inspiring our staff. As a progressive school, Orchard offers almost infinite opportunities for creativity, innovation and out-of-the box thinking. Individuals who enjoy this freedom thrive at Orchard.

The Orchard School

Professional development begins your first day and continues for as long as you stay with us. We view your development as a shared responsibility —a partnership between you and the school. Throughout your career at Orchard you will be encouraged to continue learning and given opportunities and support to foster your success including:

  • On-site continuing education. Teachers and staff at The Orchard School receive specialized, on-site training. Having on-site presenters allows everyone to participate and discuss meaningful topics and to share specific applications and experiences. On some Fridays students are dismissed early to allow extra time for teaming, planning, developing programs, all-school faculty/staff meetings, and educational speakers.
  • Individual initiative and leadership . Faculty and staff have numerous opportunities to explore new ideas and experiences that provide both personal enrichment and program enhancement. Opportunities to become a trainer, start an affinity group with children, and embrace the complex issues of diversity and multiples perspectives are just a few examples of grass-roots initiatives and personal leadership .
  • Leadership beyond Orchard. Orchard provides funding and time away to attend national workshops, seminars and conferences and encourages its teachers and staff be involved in professional associations.
  • Alignment with state standards and national proficiencies . Teachers at The Orchard School are accountable for ensuring a clear set of curricular expectations, which they help develop. These expectations are aligned with established standards, but the methodology for how teachers achieve their goals is tied to the principles of progressive education.