5 Benefits of a Progressive Education for Students

By Elena Jaime, Director of Lower School

Progressive education stands out for its holistic approach to learning, focusing on developing critical thinkers, empathetic and engaged citizens, and adaptable problem-solvers who are equipped to navigate a complex and ever-changing world. It’s about fostering deep thinking, critical analysis, and a love of learning that extends far beyond rote memorization.

For graduates of The Children’s School (TCS), our progressive approach to learning doesn’t just give them knowledge, but it equips them with the skills and confidence to create a better future, embodying the school’s mission to “enrich minds and inspire dreams.”

A Brief History of Progressive Education

The roots of progressive education can be traced back to the late 19th century, emerging as a response to the more rigid, factory-model education system of the time. Pioneers like John Dewey and Lucy Sprague Mitchell championed a student-centered approach that emphasized experiential learning, inquiry-based instruction and the development of social and emotional skills.

5 Benefits of a Progressive Education for TCS Students

Here’s how our progressive education model benefits TCS students:

1. Inquiry-Based Learning

Progressive education encourages curiosity and deep thinking. At TCS, students use tools like essential questions within project-based learning units to explore concepts, empowering them to ask meaningful questions and build their own understanding of the world.

2. Real-World Application

Learning at TCS goes beyond memorization, focusing on how knowledge can be applied to solve real-world problems. This approach prepares students to navigate complex challenges, fostering creativity and cognitive flexibility.

3. Social-Emotional Growth

Social-emotional learning is integral to progressive education. TCS creates a safe environment with our Building Character and Community curriculum where students build resilience, collaboration skills, learn to work together, share ideas, support each other’s learning and form the confidence to take risks—essential for both academic and personal success.

4. Student Agency and Leadership

TCS students take ownership of their learning, advocating for themselves and engaging actively with peers and teachers. This foundation of self-reflection and responsibility sets them apart as confident leaders in high school and beyond.

5. Adaptability for the Future

In a rapidly evolving world, TCS’s progressive approach equips students with the skills to tackle challenges that don’t yet exist. They learn to think critically, engage thoughtfully, and adapt to new situations with confidence.

At TCS, we believe that a challenging education is not about memorizing facts, but about deeply understanding concepts and applying them to real-world situations.

Our students are challenged to think critically, solve complex problems, and engage in meaningful discussions. By prioritizing depth over breadth and fostering a love of learning, progressive education at TCS helps students develop the tools they need to thrive in an unpredictable future.